Coral Springs Charter swim team achieves record breaking finishes at state championship and celebrates historic victory
Coral Springs, Florida – The Coral Springs Charter swim teams made waves at the 2A state championship on November 7 in Ocala, leaving their mark with a series of impressive finishes that highlighted both talent and determination. Competing against 52 schools, the boys’ team achieved an outstanding eighth-place overall finish, a remarkable jump from last year’s 20th place showing. The girls’ team also delivered strong performances, demonstrating the depth and promise of the Panthers’ program.
The boys’ team brought home 15 medals in total, showcasing the effort and skill of their standout athletes. The 200 medley relay team — consisting of Anthony Palumbo, John Albornoz, Brian Hamilton, and Christopher Chaison — placed fifth in the finals, earning a medal and contributing to the overall points haul. Individual performances also shone brightly, with John Albornoz finishing as runner-up in the 200 individual medley and placing seventh in the 100 breaststroke, earning medals in both events. Brian Hamilton finished fifth in the 50 freestyle to take another medal and added a 14th-place finish in the 100 freestyle.
On the girls’ side, the 200 medley relay team of Mariana Montes, Addison Palumbo, Alejandra Gil-Restrepo, and Jameela Rashad placed 16th, while the 400 freestyle relay team finished sixth overall. Mariana Montes also contributed individually, placing ninth in the 100 backstroke, and Alejandra Gil-Restrepo took 16th in the 500-meter freestyle. The boys’ 400 freestyle relay rounded out the team’s efforts with a ninth-place finish.
A historic moment for the Panthers came from disability swimmer Faith Moberg, who competed in the 50 and 100 freestyle events and placed first in both. “Faith made history by being the very first disability swimmer to become a state champion at her level in the state of Florida for FHSAA Swimming, and first state champion for Coral Springs Charter,” said Coach Sheri Wells-Smith. Moberg’s achievements underscore the inclusive and competitive spirit that defines the Coral Springs Charter swim program.
Wells-Smith praised the team for its growth and effort throughout the season. “I’m extremely proud of our swim team! We witnessed amazing growth, dedication to teamwork, and unforgettable fun while cheering on our swimmers. This was a championship to remember,” she said. With only two seniors on the roster and swimmers ranging from eighth through 11th grade, the future looks bright for the Panthers. “We are really excited for next year, and I am confident we will be returning to the state championship,” Wells-Smith added.
The state championship provided a platform for the team to showcase not only their athletic prowess but also their perseverance, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Each swimmer contributed to the team’s success, whether by medaling individually or supporting their relay teams. The combined effort of seasoned swimmers like Albornoz and Hamilton, together with emerging talents and the historic performance of Moberg, highlights the program’s balance of experience and promise.
For Coral Springs Charter, this year’s state championship was more than just a competition. It was a celebration of progress, resilience, and the potential of young athletes to achieve greatness both in and out of the pool. With so many underclassmen already showing the ability to perform at a high level, the Panthers are poised to remain a strong contender at the state level for years to come.
The achievements at the 2A state championship reaffirm Coral Springs Charter’s commitment to fostering a program where athletes can excel, break barriers, and create lasting memories. As the team looks toward the next season, the excitement and anticipation are palpable, and the Panthers are ready to dive back into competition with renewed energy and determination.
