Mason High student Bella Tepoli honored by board after state swim titles, commits to Northwestern

The Mason City Schools Board of Education recognized Mason High swimmer Bella Tepoli at its March 18 meeting after she won state titles and recorded multiple All‑American marks, coaches told the board.

Felice, a Mason High swim coach, introduced Tepoli and said the athlete’s 2025 season included individual state championships and multiple automatic All‑American performances. “She did that in five events,” Felice said of Tepoli’s automatic All‑American times, citing the 100 freestyle, 200 freestyle and three relays.

Felice praised Tepoli’s sportsmanship and leadership, saying she waits to congratulate competitors after races and “is one of the most gracious and humble athletes I have ever met.” The coach also credited Tepoli for helping the team to a second‑place finish in the state meet and for anchoring relay finishes.

Tepoli spoke to the board about the team environment and training that supported her season. “We had seven swimmers while a lot of other teams had double or triple,” she said; she also said she swims year‑round and that cross‑training — including cross country in past seasons — has helped her performance. Tepoli told the board she plans to swim at Northwestern University and said she expects to study business.

Dr. Cooper, the superintendent, noted Tepoli’s rare double in the 100 and 200 freestyle and placed the accomplishment in Mason’s program history. Board members and administrators congratulated Tepoli and her coaches and invited photos following the recognition.

The board’s recognition highlighted both competitive results and the coach’s emphasis on leadership and community impact as part of the district’s athletic values.