Trident swimmers finish out their season at state

By Ginna Young

Senior Brooke Lechleitner and junior Madeline Bunton made the long trip to the Girls WIAA State Swim meet, held Friday, Nov. 12, at Waukesha South Natatorium. The two qualified at Sectional action for the Lake Holcombe-Ladysmith- Flambeau-Bruce-Bloomer Tridents.

“Both represented themselves, their teams and our co-op communities very well,” said coach Matt Bunton.

High school girls swim programs are divided into two divisions across Wisconsin. In Division 2, four Sectional meets are held, the times combined and the fastest 16 times in each event across Wisconsin, qualify for the State championship.

Lechleitner competed in the 50-yard freestyle and 100yard freestyle races, with times of 24.37 and 54.38. Madeline raced the 200 and 500-yard freestyles, and turned in times of 2:01.35 and 5:30.18.

“It’s an incredible feat just to qualify for the State meet,” said Matt. “Both the girls swam well tonight and should be very proud of their accomplishments this season.”

Lechleitner finished her high school swimming career with a third trip to the State meet, and team and pool records in the 50 freestyle.

“It’s been a great experience to work with Brooke these past four years,” said Matt. “She’s a very talented athlete and has been a great captain for her team. Her presence on the deck will certainly be missed this coming season.”

Madeline will return to the pool for her senior year next August.

“In spite of some setbacks over the course of the season, Maddy was still able to get a shot at State, which is really impressive,” said Matt. “As her coach, I’m really proud of her work ethic and dedication to her sport, and as her teacher, I know she carries that trait into the classroom, as well.”

Overall, the Tridents finish their season with a record of 7-3, placing third in their conference and placing fourth at the Sectional meet.