With only seven members, the Verona High School boys swim team might seem like miracle workers for falling short of West Essex by only 16 points. But watching the meet last night, it was clear that Verona’s lack of numbers was more than outweighed by its strength, determination, teamwork–and a lot of cheering.
Through the season, we’ve seen strong relays as well as individual events from the boys and last night was no exception. Zack Balogh and Kyle Jacobsen, VHS football players who preferred to be in the pool over the weight room this winter, demonstrated that determination brings success. The two swimmers were key elements of the winning 200 Freestyle relay team, along with Alex McLaughlin and Justin Kobernick.
Will Sheehan dominated the 100 Freestyle with a win and Jacobsen pushed his way past West Essex for a close second place.
A strong 2nd for Kyle Jacobsen in the 100 Freestyle! pic.twitter.com/UfGWaoTEvk
— VHS Swim Team (@VHSSwimTeam) January 23, 2018
Sheehan and Balogh place first and second in the 50 Freestyle, and McLaughlin made the 500 Freestyle look easy with a second place finish. Killian Blitz dominated backstroke with a first place finish and Andrew Hunt placed second in the 200 Individual Medley.
While the boys had an incredible showing, the VHS Girls had several highlights for the evening. Sisters Jenna and Alena Gabbe took second and fourth place in the 100 Backstroke, Jenna Gabbe won the 100 Freestyle and Kelly Nulty placed second in the 100 Butterfly by a touch. Gabbe was also part of the 200 Medley Relay and 400 Free Relay that placed second and had an amazing night.
All photos courtesy of Ken Sheehan
