Boys Swimming Ends Season at Awards Ceremony

With all the races complete the last thing to do before the book could be closed on a successful season was to recognize the accomplishments.

Along with other winter sports programs the Belmont High School Boys Swim Team had an opportunity to do just that Wednesday night, March 13. Awards were presented to athletes from all winter sports programs in front of a crowd that included parents, friends, and school administration during the schools Winter Sports Award Ceremony.

Senior Swim Captain Ben Johnson was selected by coaches Bobby Reardon and Harry Delgado to receive the swimming Coaches Award. Johnson set a Varsity Record and topped the Middlesex League in the 100 Breaststroke event but according to the coaches was as much a leader outside of the pool. His performance in the water was noted along with his strong work ethic and dedication to the team which set a great example for the many new swimmers who joined this season.

In addition to Johnson, the coaches selected fellow senior Joe Tocci to receive the team’s Sportsmanship Award. Tocci took the diving crown at the Middlesex League meet and shattered the long standing BHS record for that event.

With regard to sportsmanship, Reardon spoke about Joe’s willingness to help two younger teammates who showed an interest in diving but had little experience.

“Joe brought a long dormant diving squad back to life with his positive enthusiasm for the event and that will be felt for years to come.” Tocci and Johnson were both named Middlesex League All-Stars for their performance in the League Meet along with teammates Andrew Kelley and Tom Zembowicz who were also recognized at the ceremony. 

Thanks to the Belmont Boosters Club, Swimming was able to conclude their segment of the ceremony by present eight first-time varsity swimmers with jackets. The Boosters have made it a tradition to present Belmont High athletes with jackets after their first season making varsity. The list included the freshman record setting relay team of Anthony Rodriguez, Jack Stewart, Langston Chen, and Andrew Kelley, who himself had a number of impressive individual accomplishments on the season.

In addition, Sophomore Alex Sun who earned praise for his willingness to swim almost any event. Along with graduating seniors Josh Lin, Chris Van Winkle, and Yeoman Yoon, who are among 9 seniors the team will be losing this year.