The Niles North boys swimming team has been very successful so far this season. The varsity team held a record of 4-1 and the junior varsity with a record of 3-2. In addition, divers Max Royzen and Benji Rubinberg have had great success placing both first and second in most of their diving meets this season.
The Vikings came away with their fourth straight win against Maine East last Friday on senior night . They won by a huge margin of 139-39 on the varsity end, raising their season record to 5-1, and 135-32 on the JV end, bringing them to 4-2 on the season.
Not only was it a successful meet, but it was also a special one as our senior swimmers swam their last competitions at home. Seniors Luis Castaneda, Kris Estacion, Eddy Kang and Sean Riordan received recognition for making their final year with the team a memorable and successful one. Senior recognition was during the meet after diving, where boys swimming head coach, Seth Orlove, announced the seniors’ recognition.
“It’s a very important night for us seniors,” senior captain Eddy Kang said. “It’s been such a great run, or should I say, swim, with this team in the last four years. I couldn’t ask for a better team and coaching staff.”
Kang has been an active captain for the team. He was an enthusiastic and motivational leader of the team. Although, he suffered some minor illnesses during the season, he always made sure that he was there to positively affect the team.
Although he only swam for the team for two years, Castaneda expressed his emotion on his last year as a Viking swimmer.
“It’s pretty depressing,” Castaneda said. “Going through the season took a pretty long time, but knowing it’s coming to an end is pretty depressing. It only makes me wish I started swimming for this team my freshman year.”
Castaneda came away with his personal best in the 100 Y butterfly event with a 1:02.60 against Highland Park. He played a strong role in leading the JV team to where they are now. His common events include the 200 Y Medley Relay, 200 Y I.M., and 200/400 Freestyle Relay.
In addition, Kris Estacion won first place in the 100 Y breast stroke with a 1:15.12, first in the 200 Y freestyle relay, and second in the 200 Y medley relay. Sean Riordan also placed first in the 100 Y breast stroke with a 1:05.22 and first in the 200 Y medley relay.
Congratulation to our senior swimmers and go Vikings!
