The Pittsford swim programs just added some serious hardware to their trophy case, not just locally, but nationally. Both the Panthers’ boys and girls varsity swim teams were recognized in the National Interscholastic Swimming Coaches Association dual meet team rankings for the 2025-26 academic year, a huge shout-out that tells you exactly how dominant they really are.
National Recognition for Pittsford’s Deep Teams
This isn’t just a casual mention. The Pittsford boys’ team grabbed the second spot among all public schools with an enrollment between 1,401 to 1,900 students. Not to be outdone, the girls’ team placed fourth in the same category. Both squads are under the guidance of Rick Schmitt, who has been the boys’ swim coach for a while and took over the girls’ program from Marty Keating just last fall. This is massive for New York state too, with Pittsford representing two of only four teams from the entire state included in these prestigious rankings. Talk about putting your program on the map!
All-American Shout-Outs and Record-Breaking Swims
Beyond the team rankings, NISCA also rolled out its list of All-Americans for 2025-26, highlighting athletes with some of the top 100 times in the nation. For Pittsford, the girls’ relay teams absolutely stepped up. The foursome of Lexi Lombard, Lily Orlando, Molly Bennett, and Sarah Kunze were recognized, with their 200 free relay (1:35.11) hitting 51st nationally and their 400 free relay (3:28.69) coming in at 78th. These girls are showing what dedication looks like!
Other New York talents also got some well-deserved nods. McQuaid’s boys’ relay teams , Ben Hinds, Xavier Joseph, Ian Miller, and Luke McCormack , all earned All-American status. Their 200 free relay (1:22.94) was 24th, the 200 medley relay (1:30.88) landed at 26th, and their 400 free relay (3:03.92) was 44th. Miller also clinched 77th in the 100 butterfly with a time of 48.78. Fairport’s girls 200 free relay, featuring Charlotte Larzelere, Hannah Rusho, Riley Hauber, and Kaleigh Lawrence, ranked 73rd (1:35.62), and Churchville-Chili senior Kyler Thomas was honored for diving.
This kind of national attention for Pittsford proves they are building something special. Coach Schmitt’s leadership and the incredible effort from both the boys’ and girls’ teams are clearly paying off big time. Keep an eye on these Panthers.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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