News Summary

The San Marcos High School swim team, known as Calamaga, is gearing up for the CIF Championships with a talented roster ready to compete. Senior Cassidy Allison and reigning champion Lauren Putnam lead the way, alongside promising junior swimmers. With aspirations to break records and a strong team spirit fostered by Coach Neily Esposito, the team is looking to make a memorable splash this postseason. As the prelims approach, excitement builds in the San Marcos community for what is sure to be an exhilarating competition.

San Marcos High School Swim Team Poised for Success with Strong Lineup Headed to CIF Championships

As excitement brews in the picturesque city of San Marcos, the San Marcos High School swim team, affectionately known as “Calamaga,” is ready to make a splash at the upcoming CIF Championships. With strong contenders armed with talent and determination, the team is set to showcase its prowess in the pool this season.

Meet the Stars of the Team

This season, senior Cassidy Allison is making waves as a three-time double-winner at the CIF San Diego Section Division 1 swim championships. Her signature events, the 100 butterfly and the 200 individual medley, have the potential to break records, especially considering her personal bests of 54.90 and 2:02.54.

Then there’s Lauren Putnam, the reigning champion in her events. As a distance swimmer, Putnam’s technique is exceptional, and she clinched a Division 1 title in the 500 freestyle last year, timing in at 4:58.11. With her sights set on Yale next fall, she brings not just skill but also a fierce competitive spirit to the team.

Junior Madison McCormick also stands out with her performance from the previous year where she finished as the runner-up behind Allison in the same two races. With personal bests of 55.99 in the 100 fly and 2:05.03 in the 200 IM, she is primed and eager to continue her journey towards the top of the podium.

Meanwhile, junior Gabby Esposito, a two-time defending champion, showcases her strength as the relay anchor. Esposito has an affinity for the 100 backstroke, where she won with a swift time of 56.55 last season and also placed second in the 100 freestyle. Despite managing a chronic shoulder injury, she remains undeterred, showing remarkable motivation to excel.

Record-Breaking Aspirations

As the team gears up for the CIF Division 1 championships, they are driven by the thrill of competition and the chance to challenge the 400-yard freestyle relay section record. The Knights’ relay team achieved a stellar time of 3:27.71 at last year’s state meet, which is just over a second shy of the section record of 3:26.66 set by Torrey Pines in 2018. What an exhilarating goal to chase!

A Team United

Coach Neily Esposito, who also happens to be Gabby’s stepmother, emphasizes the importance of improving speed and unity within the team. The Calamaga swimmers have cultivated a culture of support and camaraderie which enhances their performance and brings joy to their racing experience. It’s not just about individual triumphs; it’s about celebrating each other’s successes as a close-knit team.

The team famously came together in the 400 FR two years ago, even winning the section meet with a time of 3:31.67. Since then, they have relentlessly improved their relay time, winning last year’s event and posting impressive times at the state finals. Who wouldn’t be excited to see how far they can push their limits this year?

The Bittersweet Journey

As the sun sets on the high school swimming journey for seniors like Allison and Putnam, there are mixed emotions afloat. With this year’s postseason marking their farewell to high school competition, the team members are feeling a blend of nostalgia and determination. They are eager to make one last show-stopping splash.

Looking Ahead

With prelims for the CIF Division 1 championships starting on Thursday at Granite Hills High School, and the finals set for Saturday, all eyes will be on the Calamaga team. Every swimmer carries the hopes of their teammates and the San Marcos community as they dive into competition with enthusiasm and purpose. Expect some remarkable performances as they attempt to etch their names into the record books!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Additional Resources