Rangers riding wave of momentum

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Metro League champ hasn't lost dual meet in the past four years

May 15, 2008 12:07 AM

BY BETHANY RHODES

THE GAZETTE

   Lewis-Palmer leads all area boys swimming and diving teams as the 5A and 4A state meets begin today at the Edora Pool Ice Center in Fort Collins.

    The Rangers won the Metro League championship for the third straight year this past weekend.

    Dual meet wins over Highlands Ranch and Cherry Creek have given them added confidence. The team hasn't lost a dual meet in the past four years.

    Lewis-Palmer's depth should help in pursuit of a top-three finish.

    "We may not have the top swimmer in the state, but four of our swimmers are better than most four anywhere else," coach Alan Arata said.

    Senior Josh Day, the Metro League Swimmer of the Year, is the only area swimmer to have qualified for state all four years.

    Day, who qualified for all eight individual events, will compete in the 50- and 100-yard freestyles and swim legs for the 200 and 400 freestyle relays.

    "We have moved Josh to our 400 freestyle relay, which is different from last season," Arata said. "Since he holds the school record in the 100 free, it only makes sense. Our relays are looking really strong and that's where we'll pick up the majority of our points."

    The Rangers' relay teams also feature Metro League 100 butterfly champion Matt Grooms and 100 backstroke champion Collin Babcock.

    Mitchell senior Dane Van Arkel is the Metro League champion in the 50 free. He placed third in the 100 free.

    In 4A, Cheyenne Mountain has emerged as a contender after a runner-up finish at Metros.

    The Indians' 200 free and 400 medley relays are strong. Sophomore Pat Scally also won the Metro title in the 200 and 500 freestyles.

    Senior Devin Wahl, who was the first Indian in recent memory to qualify in all eight individual events, will swim relays and looks to be a possible finalist in the 200 medley and 500 free.

    Teammate Jeff Hansen should place in the 50 free and contribute on the relays.

    Fountain-Fort Carson's Patrick Cardillo is another possible area finalist in the 100 backstroke.

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