Boys’ varsity swim and dive competed in the Class 5A State Championships on Saturday, May 13, placing second with 388 points, just eleven points shy of Regis’ winning 399. Creek competed in most events, all but the 500 meter freestyle, and beat Regis in only four of the ten events they both competed in. Creek won championships in 2021 and 2019, but lost the 2022, and now the 2023, championship to Regis 467- 403.

“I feel like we are the most ‘together’ team in the state, and the loss to Regis does not mean in any way that we had a bad season,” senior varsity swimmer Aidan Hinchey said. “It was the best season of my swimming career and the best I’d ever seen Creek.”

This season, the team averaged a 7-1 overall win record, their only regular loss coming from an away meet against Smoky Hill on March 9. For most wins, Creek beat their opponents by more than one hundred points, earning a cumulative 2,641 points from wins.

Despite being disappointed over the loss, the team recognized their advancements made this season. Over the last two years, the swim team has maintained a consistent record of wins, averaging an overall win record of 9-1 in 2022 and 8-0 in 2021. 

Individual swimmers for Creek also placed highly at state. Sophomore varsity diver Luke Ogren won the 2023 5A individual diving title on May 11, taking the lead with a score of 553.55 across 11 dives, 30.1 points ahead of second place finisher Rampart senior Bryce Porter. 

“This feels amazing,” Ogren said to CHSAA. “I didn’t think I’d win this in just my sophomore year, but it feels great to accomplish that goal.”

To prepare for state, the team not only practiced, but they also upheld longtime traditions to raise team spirits and build a familial feeling. 

“[In] preparing for state we bleached our hair and had different kinds of practices, [which] were easier so that way we could be well rested for the big meet,” Hinchey said. “Two nights before prelims we had a state dinner at Maggiano’s and it was a blast.”

Creek swimmers celebrated each individual win across the whole season, but they were especially invested in their wins against Regis. After losing the championship both this year and last to Regis, normal league meets served as a chance for the team to prove themselves against their constant opponent. 

“My favorite parts of the season were beating Regis at our home pool in a dual meet, going to team dinners, and training with my brothers,” Hinchey said.

Despite the loss, most swimmers recognized the season as extremely strong, and look forward to continuing their work next year. 

“Without a doubt this was the best season of creek swimming I’ve ever been a part of and that’s thanks to the swimmers, parents, and coaching staff for all of the hard work and dedication,” Hinchey said.

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