Rangers achieve a few state cuts but fall to GRC in dual meet

Last night, the Rangers traveled to Calvin University for a conference meet against Grand Rapids Christian. Despite still having low numbers due to contact tracing, the team swam really well and won a few events. Many underclassmen provided some great performances, although the Rangers still fell 114-71 to the Eagles.

Starting the meet off strong, the Rangers came in a close second to GRC in the 200 medley relay. Swam by juniors Benji Zorn, Sam Yeager, Roman Kalaczinski, and freshman Reed Dixon, the team finished with a time of 1:43.75.

Later in the meet, Reed had another great swim in his 100 back. Not only did he win the event, but he beat his closest opponent by over two seconds. The Division 2 state cut time for this event is a 57.19, and having swum a season-best time of 56.90, Reed is now on his way to the state meet in March.

Another accomplished swimmer in the meet was Benji Zorn. Benji swam the 100 breast for the third time this season. Not only did he get a season-best time, but he qualified for states as well. With a time of 1:02.85, Benji just barely made the cut time of 1:02.89.

In the last event of the meet, the 400 freestyle relay, the team came together and beat GRC by less than a tenth of a second. Benji, Sam, Reed, and sophomore Isaac Stewart swam this event together for a time of 3:40.02.

Hoping to have a few team members back in the water by next week, the Rangers will host Byron Center at home next Tuesday the 16th. The meet will be at 6:30, but with a Senior Night ceremony for Avery LeTourneau starting around 6:15. The Rangers move on to 1-2 for the season.