Arnold High’s Cullen Descalzo Named Boys Swimmer of the Year

UPDATE: The boys swim season has concluded, spotlighting remarkable achievements from county athletes. Standout competitors pushed their limits, setting records and achieving notable wins throughout the season.

Cullen Descalzo, a senior from Arnold High School, has been named the Boys Swimmer of the Year for his exceptional performances, including district titles in the 100 backstroke and 200 individual medley. Descalzo emerged as a leader following the graduation of key team members, delivering impressive results when it counted the most.

“It’s my first year being All-County since a lot of other guys graduated, so I guess it was kind of time to step up,” Descalzo stated. His determination was evident at the regional meet, where he finished second in the 200 IM and third in the 100 backstroke. Descalzo capped his season at the state meet with commendable fifth-place finishes in both events.

“I treated the normal dual meets like preparation for the big meets,” he explained. His dedication paid off, as he looks forward to competing at the collegiate level. Descalzo is committed to Rollins College, drawn by its strong academics and high-level athletic facilities.

In a historic achievement, North Bay Haven captured its first-ever boys Class 1-1A district championship and secured third place at regionals, with four swimmers qualifying for the state meet.

The All-County selections highlight the top talent in the area:
– 1st Team All County: Cullen Descalzo (Sr., Arnold), Owen Freisthler (So., Arnold), Levi Merritt (So., Arnold), Hayden Stewart (Jr., Arnold), Samuel Merritt (Sr., Arnold HS), Jackson Matthews (So., Arnold), Roman Belev (Jr., Mosley), Orrin Scarborough (Sr., Mosley), Brendan Stahl (So., North Bay Haven), Clark Wilt (So., North Bay Haven), Peanut Rademacher (Jr., North Bay Haven), Pohaku Rademacher (8th, North Bay Haven).
– 2nd Team All County: Ethan Clark (Jr., Arnold), Cole Winterman (So., Bay), Beau Carter (Sr., Bay), Jimmy Ruthven (Jr., Bay), Treysen Villegas (Sr., Bay), Oliver Checketts (Jr., North Bay Haven), Declan McIntire (8th, North Bay Haven), Mark Tout (Jr., North Bay Haven).

This season has showcased not only the athletic prowess of these swimmers but also their resilience and commitment to the sport. As the swimming community reflects on this year’s achievements, all eyes are on the future, with many athletes set to continue their journeys at the next level.

Stay tuned for more updates on these talented athletes and what lies ahead for the upcoming swim season.