Penn, Trafford middle school swimmers see success in 2nd season

The Penn-Trafford Middle school girls swim team capped off an undefeated season with a first place victory at the county championship meet.

Girls and boys from Penn and Trafford middle schools formed a swim team last fall through fundraising by the Penn-Trafford Aqua Club, a competitive swim team organized by local parents. The 33-person team has performed well in its first two seasons, said Coach Dave Babik, who also coaches the high school swim team.

“I was very proud of our team, and happy to see their efforts pay off in a big way,” Babik said of the girls’ championship win. “The kids and parents were really happy with our victory, and I enjoyed seeing that.”

The team is also coached by Trafford Middle School teacher Ciara McGrath, aqua club coach Jason Kunkle and assistant high school swim coach Kim Graziano.

About 10 swimmers won individual awards at the championship meet, held by the Westmoreland Area Athletic Directors Association in October at Derry Area High School, said Angie Lowe, member of the aqua club’s board of directors.

“The swimmers worked hard, pushed and challenged themselves, showed growth, mental toughness and made the season a tremendous success,” Lowe said. “They were a terrific representation of Penn-Trafford School District.”

The aqua club’s fundraising allows the team to pay for bus transportation, coaches and the fees for officials, Babik said. He hopes the team becomes an official school sport in future years to receive funding from the district.

Babik would like to see the team grow and remain a dominant force in the sport.

“Most importantly,” he said, “we are hoping to continue to give kids a chance to try the sport, be healthy, have fun and learn life lessons through athletic competition.”