Bethel Park swimmers qualify for WPIAL finals
Before North Allegheny ruled the pool, Bethel Park dominated the WPIAL, capturing 22 titles, including a record 20 straight from 1981 to 2000. During his scholastic swimming career, David Kutrufis was part of that tradition for four years.
After his graduation in 1999, he studied at California University of Pennsylvania as well as Pitt, before returning to his alma mater as a teacher and coach. Since 2004, David Kutrufis has been empowered with the duties of returning the Hawks to glory.
But nothing compares to the event for which he has prepared his swimmers. This week, the WPIAL will host its swimming championships at the University of Pittsburgh’s Trees Pool. Finals in the 200-yard medley relay, 200 freestyle, 200 IM, 50 free, 100 butterfly and 200 free relay will be held March 2. Finals in the 100 free, 500 free, 100 backstroke, 100 breaststroke and 400 free relay will be held March 3. Class AAA action commences at 10 a.m. each day while the Class AA session starts at 3 p.m.
“There are few meets that I have been to where the atmosphere is matched,” Kutrufis said. “The fans, the athletes, the coaches, everyone is so excited. It’s electric.”
Sadie Coda already provided drama and points towards the Hawks’ scoring as she finished 10th during the WPIAL girls’ diving championships held at North Allegheny.
Nine additionally swimmers will be competing for medals as well as berths in the PIAA championships to be held March 15-18 at Bucknell University in Lewisburg.
Among the featured competitors are:
• Steven Sell: 50 and 100 free. He will combine with Zephyr Griffore, Paul Kallaur and Constantine Kallaur in the 200 free relay.
• Krista Wycinsky: 200 medley relay, 200 freestyle, 200 free and 400 free relays
• Jessica Scarlett: 200 freestyle, 200 free relay
• Harley Vincler: 200 medley relay
• Candice Chalus: 200 medley relay, 200 IM, 100 breaststroke
• Brooke Christian: 200 medley relay, 200 IM
• Kelsey Love: 200 free, 200 free relay, 500 Free, 400 free relay
• Madison Becker: 50 and 100 free, 200 and 400 free relays