EL DORADO – The Magnolia Panthers and Lady Panthers jumped into the water for the first time this season and placed first in an event at El Dorado.
The MHS Swim and Dive Team competed Nov. 12 against the El Dorado Wildcats and the Camden Fairview Cardinals.
The Panthers took first place honors by scoring 449 total points, while the Lady Panthers scored 451 points to secure their overall first place.
Magnolia swimmers placing first in both the 50m freestyle and 100m breaststroke were Cecily Sanchez and Harrison McWilliams.
Swimmers who placed first in one event were Oliva Ferguson, 100m butterfly; Hunter Manuel, 100m freestyle; Riley McCook, 200m freestyle; Ashlyn Middleton, 100m freestyle; Logan Riley, 100m backstroke; Talynn Watson, 100m backstroke; and Isaiah Morgan, 100m butterfly.
All of the MHS relays, except the boy 200m Medley Relay, also placed first in the meet.
“This was a great way to start the season. Our next meet is Dec. 12 at Texarkana High School Aquatics, where the new MHS divers will get their first time to compete this season,” said swim coach Kathleen Dingman.
Also, Dingman said Magnolia High School will be hosting the Class 4A-1A State Swim meet on March 1, 2021 at the Texas High School Aquatics.
“It’s a long story but no other team in the state put in a bid, so Magnolia did thanks to Superintendent John Ward and Athletic Director Dyun Long. It was approved to be in Texarkana since it is a border town, even though the facility is in Texas. Crazy year for all of us, but we are excited to host the state meet,” said Dingman.