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Making Waves of Excellence: Bunnell and Stratford High School Boys' Swimming Team and Their Stellar Student-Athletes
Staff Writer
Bunnell and Stratford High School boys are making a splash in the pool as they unite for a co-op swimming team in the South-West Conference (SWC) and CIAC Class LL. Key returning swimmers, including Bunnell Junior Cesar Padilla and Stratford Seniors Ty Faerdy and Gabriel Rodriguez, are leading the charge alongside six noteworthy newcomers from various grades.
With a focus on sportsmanship, skill development, teamwork, competition, and fun, the team sets its sights on qualifying for SWC's and States, acknowledging the challenge of the tough Class LL. The team's style centers around intentional training and proper techniques to improve swim times and clinch victories.
Despite a tough season last year, the addition of new team members has fostered hope for success. While they may not have specific rivals, the goal this season is to secure a victory after narrowly losing to Barlow and New Fairfield last year. Swimmer development is evident with some swimmers joining swim clubs for added preparation. As a co-op team, the camaraderie and chemistry between Bunnell and Stratford players contribute to a positive training environment.
Challenges include the team's small size, prompting a focus on building endurance and refining techniques. The team encourages more fans in the stands, particularly for home meets at Flood Pool that run approximately an hour long. Off the court, team captains Gabriel Rodriguez, Ty Faerdy, and Cesar Padilla showcase remarkable achievements and community service, exemplifying excellence both in and out of the pool. With the first meet scheduled for Thursday, December 21, at 4:00 against Bethel/Barlow at Flood Middle School, the Bunnell - Stratford Boys Swimming team is poised for an exciting season, blending ambition, camaraderie, and a commitment to excellence.
The COOP Swimmer are not only a force to be reckoned with in the swimming pool, but they also shine in academic and community pursuits. The team's cohesiveness extends beyond sports, with players embodying excellence in various facets of life. Team captain Gabriel Rodriguez, a senior at Stratford High, serves as a lifeguard for the Sterling House Community Center. An honors student currently holding the top spot in his class, Rodriguez is involved in numerous honor societies, including the National Honor Society, Science National Honor Society, Math National Honor Society, and National Art Honor Society. His achievements extend to multiple Scholastic Awards for Excellence, recognition in various subjects, and active participation in the SWC Academic Team Conference. Rodriguez's commitment to community service is evident through his extensive volunteer work, earning him the Silver Sterling House Award and a nomination for the P.T. Barnum Festival Royal Family.
Joining Rodriguez in his commitment to excellence is Ty Faerdy, another senior and team captain from Stratford High. Faerdy, also a lifeguard for the Town of Stratford, brings four years of varsity experience in Boys Tennis. Demonstrating academic prowess, he consistently earns First Honors every semester, showcasing a dedication to both sports and studies.
Cesar Padilla, the junior and team captain from Bunnell High, serves as a lifeguard for the Town of Stratford and stands out as a Scholar Athlete for Connecticut Swimming. His achievements extend beyond the pool, with notable roles as Drum Major in the BHS Marching Band and Clarinet Player in previous years. Padilla has achieved recognition as a 4-time Regional Champion in Connecticut Swimming and a Top 16 finisher in the CT Swim 2.5K Open Water Championships.
These exemplary student-athletes not only bring their talent to the pool but also contribute significantly to the community and academic excellence, reflecting the well-rounded nature of the Stratford Athletes. Their achievements showcase the dedication and passion that the team brings to every aspect of their lives.**