2025 Citrus County Swim & Dive Invitational: Records, Rivalries, and Community Spirit

The 2025 Citrus County Swim & Dive Invitational, held Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Citrus Memorial Health Foundation YMCA in Lecanto, once again proved why this meet is one of the highlights of the local sports calendar. Hosted by Crystal River High School, the Invitational brought together eight high school swim and dive teams from Citrus and Hernando Counties. More than 140 student-athletes competed, filling nearly 300 entries in the lanes and on the boards, creating an electric atmosphere that celebrated not only athletic excellence but also community collaboration and pride.

The day opened with a moment of unity as Crystal River High School senior Madison Boase delivered a strong, heartfelt performance of the National Anthem. Her voice set a tone of pride and togetherness, reminding everyone that while teams would fiercely compete in the water, they stood as one community.

The field featured Citrus, Crystal River, and Lecanto High Schools representing Citrus County, joined by Central, Hernando, Nature Coast, Springstead, and Weeki Wachee High Schools from Hernando County. Together, these programs showcased the very best of the region’s swimming and diving talent—athletes capable of making waves at the state level.

Crystal River Makes History

For host Crystal River High School (CRIV), the meet started with fireworks. The girls’ 200-yard medley relay team—Lucy Schroeder, Morgan Gibson, Lia Richards, and Jocelyn Daugherty—touched first in a blistering 1:57.61. The time didn’t just win the event; it shattered the school record by nearly two seconds. The celebration on deck set the tone for the Pirates’ strong showing throughout the day.

Individual highlights quickly followed. Morgan Gibson captured the girls’ 200 individual medley in commanding fashion (2:14.24). Teammate Lia Richards powered through the 100 butterfly, winning in 1:02.14. On the diving boards, Olivia Byron impressed with consistency and poise, scoring 255.95 to secure first place.

Although the Pirate girls came up just five points short of Lecanto in the overall standings, their record-breaking relay and across-the-board success underscored the program’s depth and talent. Both Pirate squads finished runner-up overall, a testament to their balance and competitive edge.

Lecanto’s Stars Shine Bright

If Crystal River set the pace early, Lecanto High School (LECA) stole the spotlight by meet’s end. Panther standout Noah Walker delivered one of the most remarkable performances Citrus County swimming has ever seen. He swept three individual titles—the boys’ 200 free (1:42.48), 100 breaststroke (57.14), and 100 free (46.81 leading off the 400 free relay)—and in doing so broke Lecanto and all-county records in each event. His swims etched his name into the history books while igniting his teammates.

The Panthers also leaned on sprinter Brandon Thornton, who captured victories in the 50 free (22.94) and 100 fly (58.02). Their depth carried into the relays, with Lecanto taking first in the girls’ 200 free relay (1:47.12), boys’ 200 free relay (1:39.09), and girls’ 400 free relay (4:02.72). On the diving boards, Hagan Henson dominated with a top score of 399.25. Backed by Walker’s brilliance and all-around strength, Lecanto secured both team titles—181 points for the boys and 133 for the girls.

Citrus High Holds Its Own

Citrus High School (CHS) also made its mark. Sophomore Sophie Albert turned in gritty performances, finishing the 200 IM in 2:46.15 and the 100 fly in 1:09.61 against strong competition. Sprinter Michael Szumski posted a solid 25.97 in the 50 free and anchored key relays, helping the Hurricanes remain competitive.

CHS closed with 48 points for the boys and 36 for the girls. While behind their county rivals, the Hurricanes’ determined swims highlighted steady progress and growth.

The Final Tally

When the scores were tallied, Lecanto claimed both team championships, Crystal River secured runner-up finishes for both boys and girls, and Citrus rounded out the local schools with respectable totals. Yet the numbers told only part of the story. Beyond medals and records, the Invitational highlighted the extraordinary talent pipeline continuing to grow in Citrus County. Follow this link for full results: https://wp.me/a6nVOm-3dq

Community at the Core

The success of an event of this scale rests on more than just the athletes. Behind the scenes, over 30 volunteers, 12 coaches, and numerous staff members worked tirelessly. The Citrus County School District, District Athletic Director Robert Verlato, and the athletic directors from each participating school provided key support.

The YMCA’s aquatics supervisor Jordan Gangi and the Y staff ensured smooth operations, while officials Gary Saslo and Jessica Horn kept the competition fair. The Crystal River athletic department and administration served as the organizational backbone.

Special recognition goes to the Sun Coast Swim Team and its leaders—Nikki Rieck, Lori Lenior, and Mike Laycok—who sponsored timing equipment and touchpads and supplied volunteers to manage scoring and technical operations. Their efforts gave the meet a professional edge.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Hebert attended the event, personally presenting medals and awards, underscoring the district’s commitment to student-athletes.

Meanwhile, the voice of the meet belonged to announcer Brian Hengesbach, a Citrus County school administrator, former Springstead Eagle, and NCAA Division II swimmer. His energy kept the atmosphere lively from start to finish.

Beyond the Pool

The Invitational was about more than stopwatches and scoreboards. It was a showcase of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Swimmers from rival schools cheered for one another, divers exchanged handshakes after close contests, and athletes celebrated personal bests together. In a sport often decided by tenths of a second, the Invitational reminded everyone that character matters as much as competitiveness.

It was also an event with community impact. Families, alumni, and local supporters filled the YMCA, bringing energy to the deck and a boost to the local economy. Meets like this not only showcase athletic talent but also bring new visitors to Citrus County, highlighting it as both a welcoming community and a place where excellence thrives.

A Lasting Impression

For those in attendance, lasting images included the roar of the crowd as Crystal River’s relay set a new school record, Noah Walker’s electrifying swims rewriting county history, and the sight of hundreds of student-athletes united by their love of the sport.

As one of Citrus County’s biggest annual swimming competitions, the Invitational not only advances swimming but also strengthens bonds that extend beyond the pool. It represents the very best of high school athletics—dedication, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence—woven together with unwavering community support.

I was honored to play a role in helping with this important event. Watching these student-athletes chase their goals and push past limits reaffirmed why Citrus County should take pride in its swimmers and divers. The 2025 Invitational was not just a meet; it was a celebration of what can be achieved when talent, effort, and community come together.

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Expanding Agriculture: Citrus County Students Explore Future Careers at UF/IFAS Workforce Seminar

On Friday, I had the privilege of attending the UF/IFAS Extension Citrus County’s “Expanding Agriculture: A Workforce Seminar”, held in partnership with the Citrus County Agricultural Alliance and the Citrus County School District. Hosted at the College of Central Florida’s Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus, the seminar brought together students, educators, and leaders in the agricultural industry for a full day of career exploration, inspiration, and hands-on learning.

Already a well-established event for high school students, this seminar once again proved to be an incredible experience. Students saw firsthand the wide range of opportunities available in agriculture—whether through technical programs, trade skills, or college pathways.

A Warm Welcome and Powerful Keynote

The day began with a warm welcome from Dr. Marnie L. Ward of the UF/IFAS Citrus County Extension Service. She thanked students, contributors, and community partners for their collaboration and emphasized a simple truth: agriculture is not just part of Citrus County’s past, but an essential key to its future.

The keynote address was delivered by Florida State Representative JJ Grow, who shared an inspiring and personal message with the students. His connection to both Citrus County and agricultural education made him a particularly meaningful speaker. A Citrus High School graduate, former FFA Chapter President, and Florida FFA State Vice-President, Rep. Grow later went on to earn his degree from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) before building a successful agribusiness career.

Today, his company develops products that improve plant health and nutrient efficiency for farmers—a cutting-edge field that demonstrates the innovation thriving within agriculture. He reminded students of the industry’s importance, noting that agriculture is the largest industry in Florida after Disney and entertainment, yet it is the one that Disney, and everyone else, depends on.

Speaking directly to the students, he challenged them to dream big: “Don’t sell yourself short… you have to decide what that path is, but you have a lot of resources right here.” For many attendees, hearing those words from someone who once wore the same FFA jacket they do now was both empowering and motivating.

Engaging Presentations and Hands-On Learning

Following the keynote, students rotated through an impressive series of classroom presentations, demonstrations, and interactive activities. They explored drone technology with Dr. Stacy Strickland and Tavis Douglas, and learned about agronomy from Dr. Marcelo Wallau of the University of Florida. Billy Bever of Riverbend Cattle Company offered insights into ranching, while Eric Cassiano from the UF Tropical Aquaculture Research Center introduced students to aquaculture.

Additional sessions included Martha Moen from Purina, who discussed animal nutrition, and Steven Hall, Executive Director of Citrus Research, who highlighted ongoing research initiatives. Hannah Love from Agriculture Education Services & Technology (AEST) spoke about agricultural certifications and workforce readiness, while Marie Davidson from the College of Central Florida highlighted opportunities in equine studies. Andy Voelz, representing Toro, provided a business and industry perspective, and Dr. Dana Choi from the UF Research Center demonstrated how artificial intelligence is reshaping modern agriculture.

These sessions underscored the diversity of the field, showing students that agriculture spans everything from livestock care and crop production to cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence, and business management.

Colleges, Programs, and Industry Partners

Equally valuable was the opportunity for students to meet face-to-face with representatives from colleges, trade programs, and industry organizations. Institutions such as Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, Warner University, the College of Central Florida Vintage Farm, and multiple departments within the University of Florida College of Agriculture and Life Sciences highlighted pathways into higher education.

Students also explored technical and trade-related options through groups like the Tampa Bay Pipe Trades, the Florida Peanut Federation, Ag Pro Crystal River, and even an underwater welding program. Other exhibitors included the Green Jean Foundation, UF/IFAS Extension, the Work Ready Program at UF Extension, and an Antique Engines display.

These conversations gave students the chance to ask questions, gather resources, and imagine how their own skills and interests might one day grow into meaningful careers. For many, it was their first time seeing just how wide and exciting the agricultural workforce truly is.

Community Collaboration and Support

An event of this size and quality is only possible with strong community collaboration. Special recognition goes to Mr. Spaulding (Citrus High School), Mr. Richardson (Lecanto High School), and Mrs. Longfellow (Crystal River High School) for their leadership in preparing students and supporting agricultural education.

Gratitude is also extended to Darrick Buettner, Citrus County School District’s Director of Community Relations and District Initiatives, for coordinating the event, and to the College of Central Florida staff for their hospitality and support. Finally, the Citrus County Agricultural Alliance deserves heartfelt thanks for their vision, sponsorship, and commitment to fostering the next generation of agricultural leaders.

Investing in the Future

The “Expanding Agriculture: A Workforce Seminar” was more than an educational event—it was an investment in Citrus County’s students and in the future of agriculture itself. By connecting young people with mentors, programs, and career pathways, the seminar provided tools and inspiration to help them envision a thriving future in this vital industry.

As students left the Wilton Simpson Citrus Campus, they carried with them new knowledge, new connections, and most importantly, new confidence. Agriculture is evolving rapidly, blending tradition with cutting-edge innovation, and events like this ensure that the next generation is ready to take the lead.

In Citrus County, the seeds of opportunity are being planted—and this event made it clear just how bright the harvest will be.

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TGH Investing in Our Future Healthcare Leaders—Right Here in Citrus County

An exciting time for future healthcare professionals in Citrus County. Tampa General Hospital North formally announced its support for the Academy of Health Careers at Crystal River High School, along with Health Science Academies in Hernando County. This multi-year partnership brings more than $600,000 in funding, equipment, and professional resources to our local students, opening doors to real-world healthcare experiences right here at home.

The Academy of Health Careers at CRHS is a special place. With hands-on labs, a full dental office, chemistry and biology labs, and soon a radiology suite, our students already have incredible opportunities to explore health careers. Now, thanks to TGH North, they will also benefit from scholarships, clinical experiences, mentoring from medical professionals, and even professional attire for school and interviews. It’s the kind of support that truly prepares students for success after graduation.

Dr. Scott Hebert, Superintendent of Citrus County Schools, shared his enthusiasm:

“This is not just an investment in our Academy of Health Careers students but in the next generation of health care professionals needed in Citrus County. Citrus County has the third-oldest population of residents in the state, making the need for qualified health care professionals essential.”
He also expressed deep appreciation to TGH’s CEO John Couris, Citrus County School Board Member Thomas Kennedy, and the Citrus County Education Foundation’s Executive Director Shaunda Burdette for helping bring this vision to life.

Jennifer Siem, Senior Director of Strategic Growth and Governmental Affairs at TGH North, emphasized the broader vision:

“This initiative is about more than funding — it’s about creating real pathways for students to explore and pursue careers in health care. By connecting students with professionals and state-of-the-art resources, we’re building a workforce that reflects the needs and values of our community.”

This partnership is personal for Citrus County. As a member of the School Board, I’ve seen firsthand how students thrive when they have the right guidance and resources. Career and Technical Education programs like the Academy of Health Careers give our students the confidence and experience to step into healthcare roles that will impact lives in our own neighborhoods.

It’s inspiring to see a local hospital so committed to nurturing our next generation of healthcare leaders. I can’t wait to see the students of CRHS flourish in the years ahead.

Read the full press release from Tampa General Hospital for more details: TGH Press Release

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