Middle Swim at Top of CAL

One of the most redeeming characteristics that can be displayed by a teenager is leadership.
This trait can be witnessed by seniors in Middle Township High School’s swimming program (boys and girls teams). That list includes Sophia Bosacco, Catherine Bostard, Samantha Braun, Ronni Johnson, Ashley Ohntrup, Lucy Rowe, Connor Allen, Brendon Bartha, Riley Campbell, Isaiah Cahill, Jorge Carmona, Brenden Kelley, Johnny Lombardelli, Colby Watts and Kai Wood.
“Fourth-year swimmers Lombardelli, Kelley, Bartha, Campbell, Wood, Rowe, Braun, Bosacco and Bostard have been leaders from the beginning,’’ said head coach Diedre Bosacco. “They made it clear their freshman year that they were not only going to set goals, they would attain them. Their positive attitude, work ethic and willingness to push through adversity have brought both teams to a new level.
“Cahill, Watts and Allen are first-year swimmers that immediately made an impact on the team. Cahill also picked up a second stroke, backstroke, to score points in dual meets.
“Every year, the expectations were raised both physically and mentally. They embraced a strict training schedule, both in the pool and in the weight room. They have mastered all four strokes and will compete in whatever event they are needed in.
“Over the past four years, these athletes have improved the team culture and have become role models for new swimmers.’’
Both Panther teams have risen to the top of the Cape Atlantic League (CAL).
“These girls were the heart of our first Cape Atlantic League (National Division) Championship, and swam their way to the South Jersey Group C final, the most successful team in school history,’’ said Bosacco. “Sophia Bosacco holds four individual school records and a relay with senior Samantha Braun. The girls are undefeated in the CAL National again this year, and [defeated Oakcrest Jan. 27] for the championship.
“The boys team [defeated Oakcrest on Jan. 27] for second place in CAL National (their only loss is to Cedar Creek).”
Both Panther teams have qualified for the NJSIAA South Jersey Group C Sectional Tournament. The girls will host Woodstown, Cumberland or Cedar Creek in a semifinal round meet Feb. 10. The boys are scheduled for a first-round meet at Delsea Feb. 4.
“Every swimmer has a role on the team, whether it is leading the chants, leading at practice, or leading through hard work and determination; they are quite an impressive group,’’ said Bosacco. “They exemplify what a team is: 6 points or 1 point, they work for each one. They know we can’t win meets with first places, it is a team effort.
“Junior Ishika Patel and Sophomore Sophia Braun are also a part of a relay record, and Junior Travis McCray has become a stand out sprinter.’’