by Asher Hirt ’25
March 7, 2025
Last month, on February 7-8, USN’s swim team took to the University of Tennessee Knoxville at the state championship meet, marking the end of an historic season.
The team’s preparation was evident in their performances. Notably, the senior class stood out and played a pivotal role in the teams performance with multiple top placements, personal records, and school records. The competition not only underscored individual achievements but also highlighted the collective strength and determination that has come to define USN’s swim program.
Leo Frein ‘25 emerged as one of the weekend’s standout performers. Competing in multiple events, he achieved personal best times across every single event he swam in. In the 100 backstroke, Frein clocked a 51.27, which earned him a sixth place finish. At the state meet, being in the top eight is a significant accomplishment as it earns swimmers a spot in the final. Frein’s performance was historic, as he became the first USN boy to earn a spot in an individual state championship final since 2011.
In the 100 butterfly he swam a 52.25, marking another personal best and earning a 19th place finish.
Leo Frein ‘25 competing in the 100 Butterfly (via Leo Frein)
“I was really happy with my performance. Setting new times takes a lot of work so I am glad I swam at my absolute best for my last meet at USN,” Frein said.
Leading up to the championship, coaches had to switch up practice routines to ensure everyone would be prepared.
“We went down in yardage with shorter high-intensity practices a couple of weeks before the meet,” Frein explained.
He added, “I only practice with Nashville Aquatic Club but [the coaches at NAC] were on the same page with helping me prepare for the state meet for USN.”
One of the main reasons Frein is not practicing with the rest of the team during the season is that he competes as a year-round club swimmer. While his swim season continues after the state meet, his focus will switch to preparing for upcoming collegiate competition.
“I will continue swimming for my club team throughout the summer in preparation for swimming at the collegiate level.”
Another senior focused on taking her talent to the next level is Anna Hulan ‘25. Hulan, who is committed to swim for Michigan next year, made a significant impact at the meet as well. Hulan earned third place finishes in both of her events, posting times of 2:02.87 in the 200 individual medley and 55.46 in the 100 backstroke. Hulan’s 200 individual medley was an All-America consideration time, and she earned a spot on the all-state team with both of her top three finishes.
While Hulan was happy with her own performances, she pointed to a team highlight as well.
“The best moment was when the guys [Frein, Sawyer Beckwith ‘25, Dean Stevenson ‘26, Jack Fruin ‘27] tied the school record in 400 free relay because it was very unexpected,” she shared. That record had been untouched since it was set in 2014.
Reflecting on her overall experience swimming at USN, she added, “I’m sad that it’s all over, but the four years were fun and I got a lot out of the experience. I hope to keep seeing people on the team once I am in college.”
The final senior who made strides at state was Sawyer Beckwith ‘25. He achieved personal bests in both events he swam. A 49.11 in the 100 freestyle finishing 36th and a 22.30 in the 50 freestyle finishing 31st. Reflecting on his performance, Sawyer remarked, “This will be my last swim meet of my competitive swimming career, so I am glad I went out on a [personal record]. I feel like that was the best way I could have ended it.”
Beckwith also had the second fastest split for USN’s team in the 400 Free relay.
Overall, USN’s performance at the state meet in Knoxville was a fitting capstone to the season. The senior class not only set personal and school records, but they also lifted the entire team with their leadership.
Stevenson, one of the swimmers who helped break the school record, expressed his admiration for the senior leadership this year.
“Every day I walk down the halls and am greeted by the friendly presence of the seniors. Their support really brings out the best in our team,” Stevenson said.
Their dedication and influence have not only defined this season but will also inspire the future of USN’s swim program.
