Epic Clash Awaits: Scranton Prep vs. Elk Lake – A High-Stakes Girls’ Team Showdown

One of the most awaited swim competitions of the Lackawanna League season marks the initial week of activity following the new year.

Scranton Prep, having secured 73 consecutive dual victories, travels to Elk Lake for a girls’ competition on Wednesday afternoon, showcasing skillful athletes who have reached the podium and participated at the state level.

Elk Lake put up a challenge against the Classics last year but ultimately fell short, 109-61, at the University of Scranton, where the teams do not engage in diving. This year, with the competition hosted at Elk Lake, diving will be included.

An adept and distinguished group of swimmers paves the way for Scranton Prep.

Four Classics were recognized last season on the Times-Tribune All-Region team.

Rebecca Oakes earned a gold medal in the 100-yard butterfly at last season’s District 2 Class 2A Championships and placed 29th at the PIAA meet. Eva Kaszuba seized a silver medal in the 100 breaststroke and a bronze in the 50 free at the district competition, while Sophia Galko obtained a silver in the 100 butterfly, and Ella Schofield claimed a bronze in the 100 breaststroke.

The Classics have excelled in their initial three matches of the season, winning by an average of 74.7 points per match.

Elk Lake counters with three competitors who were similarly recognized on the All-Region team last season.

Brynn Warriner was a district champion in the 50 freestyle and secured 30th place at the PIAA meet. Allison Grosvenor and Hannah Howell each earned medals at the District 2 Class 2A championships.

Furthermore, Elk Lake possesses depth in diving. Sadie Smith, Lily Rauch, and Taylor States have swept the top three positions against Dunmore and Valley View in the event. Achieving a sweep in this category will earn 13 team points.

The Lady Warriors have been remarkable, achieving victories in their first three competitions, including a 100-85 win against Delaware Valley.

Stars take the pool

Aside from the Scranton Prep at Elk Lake competition, the Abington Heights-West Scranton boys meet on Thursday will also showcase All-Region talent.

Abington Heights boasts a 3-0 record, led by Jason Casper, Derek Williams, and state-medal-winning diver Ethan Horutz.

All three were champions last season at the District 2-4 Class 3A Subregional meet. Casper triumphed in the 200 freestyle and the 100 butterfly, while Williams won the 50 free.

West Scranton’s leading swimmer is Roy Ayala. He secured victory in the 200 individual medley. This season, he is joined by his brother, Jordan Ayala.

Angel Agosto stands out as one of the premier divers in the Lackawanna League, finishing fifth at last season’s district subregional meet.

DV commemorates Baranowski

Delaware Valley’s swim program paid tribute to former All-Region standout Damian Baranowski, who tragically passed away this summer in a biking accident.

The team observed a moment of silence before the 200 freestyle, and all funds raised at the concession stand and from raffle ticket sales were donated to the family’s memorial fund, which will be utilized for a bike ride and 5K in his honor this summer.

The family also intends to establish a scholarship in Damian’s name.

Baranowski earned All-Region recognition four times. He captured gold medals in the 200 freestyle and the 100 freestyle, leading the Warriors to the Lackawanna League and District 2 Class 3A championships as a senior in 2020.