Big freshmen class incoming for Raiders

WILLIAMSBURG — Numbers will remain strong for the Williamsburg girls swimming team in 2025.

“We have a big freshmen class coming in this year,“ fifth-year coach Mindy Wuebker said. ”Definitely seeing some big potential in this class.“

The team had 32 swimmers last season and graduated just four.

The Raiders’ top returner is Selah Smith.

Smith was a member of the team’s 2023 200-yard freestyle relay team and eyes a possible return to the state meet this season.

Other key returners include Kayla Rechkemmer (100 backstroke), Kaylin O’Connell-Gabriel (sprint free), Liahna Malin (100 Breaststroke, 200 individual medley) and Shiloh Smith (200/500 freestyle).

“Our sophomore class had some strong returners as well,” Wuebker said. “I have seen a lot of growth in this class, they put in a lot of time in the offseason.”

The team’s upperclassmen have also shown a lot of leadership.

“We have a small but mighty group of upperclassmen.” Wuebker said. “Our junior class has some dedicated swimmers and some excellent leadership. Excited to see the growth and potential in our team this year.”

The Raiders finished sixth at the North Central Conference meet and eighth at their state qualifying meet in the postseason.

They open their season Aug. 28 with a home triangular.