BOYS SWIMMING: SPSL NORTH AT A GLANCE

SPSL NORTH

BOYS SWIMMING: AT A GLANCE

• FAVORITE: Kentridge

• CONTENDERS: Kentwood, Jefferson, Kentlake.

• SLEEPER: Kent-Meridian.

• NOTABLE/OUTLOOK: Kentridge entered the season having won 22 straight dual meets, a streak that dates back to Dec. 6, 2005, when the Chargers tied Enumclaw, 93-93. Always among the teams with the highest numbers, Kentridge welcomed six freshmen divers this season, a bit of an anomaly in the sport. … Mat Bailey, a state qualifier in the 200 IM last year as a freshman with Kentridge, has transferred to Kent-Meridian. Bailey’s arrival gives the Royals two state veterans. Kyle Axtell, one of the premier divers in the league, made it to state for the Royals last winter. … Kentwood freshmen John Perko already has turned some heads. A sprint freestyler, he has the potential to advance to district, and possibly even to state, according to Kentwood coach Sharon Wright. Andrew Douglass (500) is Kentwood’s lone returning state qualifier. ... David Beyer has taken over at Kentlake for Caroline Whitlock. Beyer also coaches Kentlake’s girls team. ... Tahoma clearly is on its way up. Last year, the Bears had only 12 swimmers turn out. This year, that number has swelled to 25.

MUST-SEE MEETS

Kentlake at Kentridge, Jan. 6: The Falcons graduated plenty of talent, but they still should challenge the Chargers.

Kentwood at Kentridge, Jan. 8: Crucial week continues for North favorite Kentridge. A win here likely puts league title in KR’s hands again.

District meet, Rogers High, Feb. 6-7: The final opportunity for swimmers to advance to state meet, it’s a must-see.

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read.