The Shadow
LOW MOOR Va. (VR) — The Alleghany Highlands YMCA Dolphins swim team made a strong splash at the Upper Southeast Regional YMCA Meet, held March 20–23 at Liberty University, with three of its top athletes proudly representing the team in a pool full of fierce competition.
Jack Shull, Lincoln Rosales, and Aiden Fry rose to the occasion, competing in one of the most elite youth swimming events in the region. With nearly 800 swimmers from over 35 YMCA teams across Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, the meet brought together the best of the best — and the Dolphins proved they belonged.
Competing in the boys 11–12 age division, Jack and Lincoln each swam three events and powered through to earn two new personal best times apiece. Their focus, discipline, and drive in the water were on full display.
Aiden Fry, the youngest of the trio at just nine years old, swam five events in the 9–10 age group and earned a personal best as well. His effort and energy were a bright spot in the meet, showing that the future of the Dolphins program is in good hands.
“These boys set goals and worked hard every single day in the pool,” said Coach Shari Peterson. “For them to hit personal bests at a meet like this speaks volumes about their commitment and potential. We’re incredibly proud of them.”
Coaches Kathy Wilson and Amanda Yeagley also played key roles in preparing the swimmers for competition, providing guidance and encouragement throughout the season.
Jack, a seventh grader, is the son of Richard and Tiffany Shull. Lincoln, also a seventh grader, is the son of Carlos and Tiffany Rosales. Aiden, a fourth grader, is the son of Lee and Linda Fry. All three athletes are not only rising stars in the pool, but also excellent representatives of the character and sportsmanship the YMCA strives to build.
The Alleghany Highlands YMCA Dolphins swim team welcomes swimmers ages 5–19 each fall, with practices running from October through early March. Young swimmers interested in joining the team must pass a basic swim test and bring a willingness to learn and grow.
To learn more about joining the Dolphins, contact YMCA Operations Director Thomas Smals at (540) 962-9622.
