Coaches Christian and Paige Simensen were impressed with the numerous personal bests and and amazing swims this season!
The Chapin High School Swim Team wrapped up an incredible season, marking another year of excellence in the pool. The Chapin Eagles girls team finished undefeated with a 7–0 record, while the Boys team posted an impressive 5–2 season.
Team Captains were: Jake DiMaria, Mason Blevins, Ella O’Saughnessey and McKenzie Metts
Both teams capped off their season last week at the AAAAA Division 2 State Swimming Championship, where Chapin was proudly represented by 19 state qualifiers — nine girls and ten boys.
This year’s team was one of the largest yet, with 52 student-athletes contributing to Chapin’s success. Representing the girls at State were Sydney Barkevich, Jackie Bonavilla, Mazie Boulware, Sloan Kerman, McKenzie Metts, Ashlyn Newman, Ella O’Shaughnessey, Elise Sammis, and Rachel Swart.
On the boys’ side, Mason Blevins, Michael Bonavilla, Nicholas Bonavilla, Landon Clark, Jake DiMaria, Declan Kukucka, Grayson Powell, Tradd Powell, Parker Simensen, and Matthew Windish competed with determination and pride.
This season also saw three new Chapin school records set:
- Jackie Bonavilla broke the 200 yard Individual Medley record with a time of 2:05.18, earning her the title of State Champion in the event.
- Jackie also set a new 100 yard Fly record with a time of 56.86, finishing 2nd at State.
- The 200 Free Relay record was shattered by Jackie Bonavilla, Ella O’Shaughnessey, Ashlyn Newman, and Sydney Barkevich with a time of 1:39.25, earning the team a silver medal.
In addition, Ella O’Shaughnessey earned bronze medals in both the 200 Free and 500 Free events, adding to Chapin’s strong presence at State.
With strong finishes, a deep roster, and outstanding team chemistry, the future looks bright for Chapin Swimming.
If interested in joining the Chapin Swim team, reach out to Coach Christian and Paige Simensen. All rising 7th through 12 graders are encouraged to tryout. The Chapin swim season starts in early August and finishes in mid-October with states. Chapin swim team currently swim at the Quail Valley Swim and Racquet Club in Irmo.
