Northampton Area High School’s varsity swim team traveled to Pocono Mountain West on Tuesday, Dec. 19, for a showdown that would end in two more victories for the now 4-0 boys and girls squads.

The final accounting showed a Northampton boys victory of 124-42 and a girls win of 102-63.

In the individual events, Gabriella Oswald set the tone for the girls with a commanding, first-place finish in the 200 freestyle. Oswald would later claim first place in the 100 freestyle as well. Ava Keenan took a decisive, first-place finish in the 200 individual medley, and Olivia Kuhns’ backstroke prowess shone through in the girls 100 backstroke.

For the guys, an explosive start by Ryan Franke brought him victory in the 100 breaststroke and Logan Saylor rocketed to victory in the 50 freestyle.

Endurance was the name of the game in the long-distance events. Brenna Caley demonstrated her stamina in the 500 freestyle, while Gabe Gower earned the gold in the 500 freestyle. Likewise, in the demanding 100 butterfly events, Northampton swimmers left PMW in their wake with first-place finishes by Gigi Esteban in the girls event and Josiah Hippert for the boys.

Throughout the relay events, Northampton truly embodied the power of teamwork.

The girls 200 medley, 200 freestyle, and 400 freestyle relays, anchored by Sophia Pina, Sara Houck, and Elizabeth Sponsler, respectively, showcased the Northampton swimmers’ ability to push each other and finish strong. The boys 200 freestyle relay team, composed of Nathan Scheirer, Jacob Ladd, Ryan Franke, and Riggins O’Grady, brought another team win, their camaraderie fueling their impressive victory.

Naturally pleased with the results of the team’s hard work and dedication, Northampton head coach Cullen Mentzell continued to taut the benefits of cross-training the swimmers to field a wide variety of events.

“Most of our swimmers are capable of swimming any event and I (continue to look) to get the kids in as many different events as possible,” he said.

Looking forward, Northampton will welcome Easton High School for a dual meet over the winter break at the Gwen L. Whildin Natatorium on Thursday, Dec. 28.