Cranbrook Cranes Top Lahser With State-Qualifying Swims

The Cranbook Kingswood Boy’s Swim and Dive team claimed their second win of the season last week, topping Bloomfield Hills Lahser High School with a score of 119 to 66 on Dec. 13.

Four Cranes had state-qualifying swims in individual events: Mitch Buccalo (2:10.23 in the 200y IM); Alessandro Guittilla (5:11.11 in the 500y freestyle); Matt Liu (54.01 in the 100y butterfly and 1:01.54 in the 100y breaststroke); and Danny Misra (5:04.60 in the 500y freestyle). The Cranbrook 200y medley relay team of Alex Hogan, Matt Liu, Peerasorn Chantadansuwon and Stefan Withrow, as well as the 200y freestyle relay team of Alex Hogan, Stefan Withrow, Drew Branigan and Nate Tatrie, not only won the relays, but also qualified for states. 

Head Coach Tony Kurth said he was very pleased that the Cranes were able to win a meet against another Division 3 team early in the season, but was also "proud of the numerous personal best swims."

It appears to be further evidence of the team's growth since Kurth took the helm, and bolstering hopes to surpass last season's 4th place finish in the state finals.

"With any sport at any level, coaching styles take time to develop and gain the trust of those who are coached," he said.

Cranbrook Kingswood divers also showed good form as Ray Gagliardi and Grant Glover assembled more than 100 points each. Coach Scott McHugh said he is impressed with the performance early on.

"They are showing good form and a high degree of confidence," he said.

Despite missing several swimmers due to illness, Lahser gave the Cranes a swim for their money. The Knights had several swimmers make state cuts in individual events as well.

Cody Wolfrom (1:49.86 in the 200y freestyle), Joe Finn (1:50.79 in the 200y freestyle) and John Schihl (1:03.34 in the 100y breaststroke) all qualified. The 200y medley relay team (Joe Bujold, Cranny Jones, John Schihl and Joe Finn) was not to be left out and swam a state qualifying time of 1:48.91. Jack Ramonant nearly got his state cut with a 23.84 in the 50y Freestyle. Coach Mike Rado has seen plenty of teams in his 32 years of coaching, and despite the loss said he's confident in his team.

"This team has what it takes finish in the top 10 at states again this season," he said.

Lahser divers contributed as well, with Austin Fleischer winning the diving competition with 144.9 points.

This update was provided by Patch reader Jo Sikora, a Cranbrook parent that volunteers time to distribute swim team media releases.