Hi’s Eye is highlighting the accomplishments of two student athletes as they wrapped up their winter seasons on high note:
At the recent Meet of Champions, senior Caroline Baldwin shattered multiple records. Among the meet records were the 50-yd freestyle (23.00s) and the 200-yd medley relay (1:45.52s), breaking the WHS records as well. She also broke the school record for the 100-yd backstroke (54.44s) and 200-yd freestyle relay (1:36.38s.)
Said Head Swim Coach Jeffrey Knight, “The fact that she is able to continually put forth the time and effort really separates her from many of her peers.”
Baldwin cites her teammates as her motivation. She added: “I know the team is always counting on me, and I just want to keep making my coaches and teammates proud.”
Said senior Quad-Captain Kathleen Bond, “The WHS records she broke have established her as one of the best swimmers to ever come through WHS, not to mention the state.”
Despite losing in this year’s state finals, the future looks bright for Baldwin, who will be swimming for UNC next year.
“There are a ton more doors to be opened down the road,” said Baldwin. “I can’t wait to see what those doors have in store.”
Junior Jacqueline Knapp eclipsed the 1,000 point mark against Union in the UCT quarterfinals, becoming the fifth Lady Blue Devil to do so in WHS history. Knapp became the second player to reach 1,000 points this season, along with fellow junior Lillian Scott.
“It was a great feeling of accomplishment,” said Knapp. “It is something I have worked toward since I was a freshman.”
Said senior Co-Captain Morgan Maloney, “The milestone is a testament to the great, diligent player that she is.”
According to nj.com, Knapp averaged 15 points per game this year. “I love the game,” said Knapp. “I want to be the best I can be, so I have to push myself.”
Knapp said she has high expectations for next year’s team. Said Knapp, “I hope next year we can [win the] Union County Championship and maybe even the state championship.”
Said Athletic Director Ms. Sandy Mamary: “In a word, it’s phenomenal. This team is 90 years old, and [Knapp and Scott] are number 4 and 5 on the scoring list. To say it is impressive is an understatement.”