Edged out — Kearns retain 2nd in championships

Heading into the 5A state swim championships, it wasn't really a secret that Brighton aimed to overtake Kearns for second on both sides.

Based on seeded times, each of the Cougars' teams trailed Brighton at the start of the meet.

That didn't stop Kearns from retaining second place, though.

Spurred by several great swims during the first day, the Cougars managed to stave off Brighton and maintain second place. Kearns' girls defeated the Bengals 337.5 points to 326.5, while the boys' side finished ahead of Brighton by 20 points, 277-257.

"I'm really pleased," said coach Chris Horne.

In the weeks leading up to the state championships, Horne realized how hard it can be to provide each of his swimmers with individual instruction during the meet.

Accordingly, he put together a packet for each of his swimmers, which contained things like heat sheets, inspirational quotes, personal best times and goals.

"That did a lot," said Horne. "Those papers did a lot to help them."

As expected, the girls team was led by junior standout Natalie Edge. She won the 50 free and 100 free and finished third in the Swimmer of the Year standings.

"(The meet) went very well," said Edge. "I was pleased with my times."

She also led Kearns to a win over Skyline in the 200 free relay.

Besides Edge, Megan Raby, Stephanie Fredsall, Timbrell Huff, Christie Bergesen all had outstanding swims for Kearns' girls side.

Meanwhile, one of the main highlights for the boys came in the final event, the 400 free relay. The team, composed of Todd Bradley, Cory McLaughlin, Adam Huff and David Chandler, dropped over seven seconds off its seeded time en route to victory.

"The last relay was excellent," said Horne.

Individually, Bradley, McLaughlin, Huff, Chandler, Justin Christensen and Isaac McElhaney all had solid swims on the boys side.

What's in store for Kearns next year?

The Cougars expect to feature solid teams next year, and they'll be in the hunt for top honors again.

Also, Edge returns for her senior season, and she'll compete with Skyline's Sara Nicponski for the 5A girls Swimmer of the Year title.

"I just want to get out and have some fun," Edge said of next year, "and try to get some best times."

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E-mail: drasmussen@desnews.com