On Feb. 21, 2025, the Ross High School Varsity Boys’ Swim Team competed in the 2025 OHSAA Championship and won a total of six state titles. RHS has never experienced an accomplishment like this, so this milestone made history for the swim program.
To start, RHS Senior Cooper Burt won in the butterfly category with a time of 47.72 seconds, followed by a win in the 100 backstroke at 48.28 seconds. He not only broke the school record for the backstroke but also broke the record for the whole state of Ohio.
RHS Varsity Swim Coach Joe Stewart stated, “We never doubted our ability within the team structure and were excited to let the state see our ability. It was an emotional evening for sure.”
Along with the first two titles, RHS Senior Connor Bennett won in the 200 IM with 1:49.32 and the 100 breaststroke event at 55.61 seconds.
To finish off the success, Burt, Bennet, along with Junior Luke Mignery and Sophomore Timmy Pfirrman took home first place in the 200 medley relay at a time of 1:32.30, following the 400 freestyle relay with 3:07.24.
Stewart stated, “I think these state titles and the team placement will definitely inspire a new generation of swimmers in this community. More people than ever will see what can be accomplished in this sport and that will definitely mean we will see an uptick in those that participate.”
Overall, these achievements have given the RHS swim and dive program the attention it deserves and will continue to inspire those who will participate in the future. If you have any interest in becoming a swimmer or diver for future seasons, you can contact Head Coach Joe Stewart for more information.
