Okaloosa School Board honors Crestview swimmer Donovan Morales for state titles

The Okaloosa County School Board paused its agenda to recognize Donovan Morales, a Crestview High School senior who won the Class 3A boys 50- and 100-yard freestyle state titles. Superintendent Mr. Chambers introduced Morales and his family and praised the athlete’s dedication.

"It is a blessing to have Donovan Morales," Mr. Chambers said, noting Morales represents Crestview and the county at the state level. Coaches described Morales’s steady time improvements — one coach recalled his 50-yard time dropping from about 42 seconds to the high 20s within roughly a year — and credited his discipline and daily workouts.

Coach Hernandez noted the team’s rapid growth as a program and said Morales never let nerves get in the way on big stages such as the state meet in Ocala, where he competed against national-caliber swimmers. Board members asked the family and coaches to remain for photographs following the recognition.

The recognition was ceremonial; no board action was required. The board moved on to administrative business after the presentation.