SSPP scores top-ten finishes at championship meet

More than 1,100 swimmers from 24 schools competed Sunday in the Neumann Catholic Swim League Championships at the University at Buffalo and when the nine-hour aquatic marathon was over, seven children from SS. Peter & Paul School proudly walked away with medals for top-10 finishes.

Eighth grader Laura Brick concluded her SSPP swim career with a 10th place finish in the 11-up 200 freestyle and ninth in the 50 backstroke. Sixth grader Rachel Kuechle, one of the most talented and promising swimmers in the league, scored a seventh place finish in the 200 individual medley and 10th in the 50 fly, competing strongly in both events against the NCSL's elite eighth graders.

In the 9-10 age group, Brian Costello put aside his hockey equipment long enough to finish an excellent sixth place in the 50 breast which attracted one of the larger fields in the meet.

Evan Manna was SSPP's highest finisher of the day with an impressive fourth place finish in the 25 free, an event that included more than 270 swimmers competing in 34 heats. Manna also finished high in the 50 free, placing sixth in a highly competitive field. Kurt Haumesser continued his steady development, capping a great season with ninth place in the 100 IM.

Grace Galvin, Haumesser, Charles Weimer and Manna comprised both SSPP relays in the 8-unders, finishing 10th in the medley and eighth in the free.