Park Hill junior Ava Hughbanks is set to lead the way this winter after qualifying for state in the 100-yard backstroke and 100-yard butterfly.
KANSAS CITY – Taking a year off from competing at the Class 2 State Championships as a team, Park Hill will look to change that this year.
Juniors Ava Hughbanks and Karis Barton both qualified for state in the 100-yard backstroke. Hughbanks also made it in the 100-yard butterfly.
“In order to be successful we’ll need to bring strong work ethic to practice and look to improve through-out the season,” Park Hill head swimming coach Karl Haley said.
Seniors Avery Whalen and Ava Sullivan bring varsity experience to the water. Claire Conrad highlights the sophomore class, having lettered as a freshman.
“Hannah Stewart should be a big help in the 200 IM and breaststroke and Layla Nelson is a solid all-around swimmer. Kaitlyn Werner has made large improvements from last season and Kyra Smail has in diving as well,” Haley said.
Park Hill tied for 31st at state in 2022 and lacked state exposure in 2023. Coach Haley has high hopes for the winter.
“We have a solid top 4 or 5 swimmers that will need to be leaders to help out the inexperienced underclassmen. Hannah Stewart will make an impact individually and on relays along with Hughbanks and Barton,” Haley said.