Swimming: State runner-up Pioneer reloads with talented, deep lineup

The Pioneer girls’ swimming and diving team have some unfinished business at the state meet but that’s not what they are focused on at the moment. Pioneer finished second by just one point at last year’s state finals but instead of hanging their heads last year they rightfully celebrated all of their incredible accomplishments.

The Pioneers are focused on today and not tomorrow and that’s a successful blueprint for racking up more incredible accomplishments in 2020.

“We are just looking to improve on a daily basis and have the opportunity to compete as a team,” says Pioneer Coach Stef Kerska, now in her sixth year with the Pioneers. “We have enjoyed our time swimming at the lake but look forward to swimming with walls and flags.”

The Pioneers went 13-0 last year and were SEC Red co-champions. At the MHSAA Division 1 State Finals at the Holland Aquatic Center, Farmington Hills Mercy finished with 298 points to Pioneer’s 297.5.

“Our team has a tremendous amount of talent and depth,” says Kerska. “Our kids are highly competitive and versatile in how they can help the team in lineups.”

And what’s on the to-do list?

“We need to continue to improve our overall fitness level and specifically our core strength,” says Kerska.

Returning All State & All Americans include: senior Quoia Sam – 200 Medley Relay & 100 Back; and juniors Lily Cramer – 200 & 400 Free Relay plus 100 Breast; Amelia Weyhing – 200 Medley Relay & 200 Free Relay; Holly Pringle – 200 Medley Relay & 400 Free Relay; Autumn Bullinger – 200 Medley Relay & 200 Free Relay; and Vivian VanRenterghem – 400 Free Relay.

Pioneer opened the season last night (Thursday) against Bedford.