Swimmers surprised upon return
Liberty’s state champion swimmers returned home from Bucknell University on Friday afternoon to a surprise celebration at the high school where Patrick Gilhool, Addison Collins, Danny Lehr, Malcolm Collins, Corbin Eisenhardt, Wade Wu, Coach Reik Foust, and Assistant Coach Evan Kocon were greeted by the Grenadier Band, cheerleaders, students, administrators, and fans.
“We are extremely, extremely proud of you,” said Liberty principal Dr. Harrison Bailey III, as the state champions climbed the steps of the high school to cheers and applause.
Coach Foust then addressed the crowd.
“It was a great couple days,” he said. “These six gentlemen represented Liberty with pride. It was a lot of fun, a lot of hard work, 5:00 in the morning all season long, lifting weights, putting in the yardage. I was very proud of their efforts and certainly their accomplishments. They did it.”
Dan Terry, president of the Liberty Athletic Club, recounted the Hurricanes’ triumphs at the PIAA Class 3A State Swimming Championships and told the gold medalists that everyone who was at the school on Friday afternoon was there because they wanted to recognize them and celebrate with them.
“Truly a historic week,” he said. “Liberty has never had this much success at a state championship meet.”
Addison Collins spoke for the team.
“This was the last thing I expected. I was asleep 20 minutes ago, but this is great,” Collins said. “Honestly, the best part of this was doing this with the kids I grew up with, especially my brother. Memories forever, so thank you, Liberty, for coming out.”
Rep. Steve Samuelson and Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy were also in attendance to extend their congratulations.
Dr. Bailey concluded the celebration, expressing gratitude to the Hurricane swimmers and coaches.
“I know the one gentleman who wishes he could be here more than anything is (Liberty athletic director) Mr. (Fred) Harris, who is out at states, finishing up the announcing. He was there with you so I know he was jumping for joy,” Dr. Bailey said. “On behalf of the district and our school, thank you, thank you, thank you.”