St. Mary's Dominican High School swim team wins LHSAA 2024 Division I state championship

Under the bright lights of the Louisiana State Capitol, a wave of pride washed over the assembly as House Resolution 18 was introduced, honoring the remarkable achievements of the St. Mary's Dominican High School swim team. This resolution, proposed by Representative Schlegel, celebrates the team’s triumphant victory at the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA) 2024 Division I state championship, where they outpaced their closest competitor by a staggering fifty-seven points, amassing a total of 411.5 points.

The resolution not only recognizes the team’s impressive performance but also pays tribute to the resilience and determination of the athletes and their coach, Bret Hanemann. After narrowly missing the title in 2023 by just one point, the team returned with renewed vigor, showcasing their dedication and teamwork throughout the season. Their hard work culminated in a series of individual victories at the state meet, with standout performances from swimmers like Terese Vocke, who clinched the 500-yard freestyle title, and Kendall Jollands, who excelled in both the 100-yard butterfly and 100-yard backstroke events.

In addition to individual accolades, the team also secured two relay state titles, further solidifying their dominance in the pool. The 200-yard medley relay team, comprised of Annalise Gagliano, Haley Valdine, Kayleigh Jollands, and Kendall Jollands, and the 400-yard freestyle relay team, featuring Virginia Robinson, Terese Vocke, Kendall Jollands, and Annalise Gagliano, both emerged victorious, showcasing the depth of talent within the squad.

The resolution also highlights individual honors, such as the Lou Reilly Award, presented to Sydney Ranson for her continuous improvement and teamwork, and Haley Valdine’s selection to the LHSAA All-Academic 4.0 Composite Team, recognizing her outstanding academic achievements alongside her athletic prowess.

As the resolution moves through the legislative process, it serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and community support in youth sports. The recognition not only celebrates the athletes' accomplishments but also inspires future generations to strive for excellence both in the pool and in their academic pursuits. With the resolution's passage, the legacy of the St. Mary's Dominican High School swim team will be etched in the annals of Louisiana sports history, a testament to their hard work and dedication.