Heights swimmers finish terrific year with Lodi co-op

The Lodi/River Valley/Wisconsin Heights swimming co-op team enjoyed a tremendous season. Wisconsin Heights swimmers senior Nola Frost, freshman Annabelle Schultze and sophomore Danika Henning were all instrumental in what has been one of the most successful Lodi co-ops in years. Unfortunately for the Blue Devils, their season ended last Saturday at the WIAA Division 1 Sun Prairie West Sectional. Lodi finished 12th out of 14 teams and failed to have any swimmers advance to this Saturday’s state meet at Waukesha South High School. At sectionals, Frost was part of Lodi’s 200-yard medley relay and its 400-yard freestyle relay teams that both finished 12th. Frost was also 11th in the 200-yard freestyle and 20th in the 100-yard breaststroke. “While Nola Frost has been versatile and excels in any event she’s put in, she’s really shined in two main events this season: the 200 yard freestyle and 100 yard breaststroke,” coach Natalie Price said. “As captain, Nola has led the way for the Lodi co-op in both of these events.  “What truly sets her apart is not just her talent, it’s her relentless work ethic. She leads by example, putting in the hours both in and out of the pool, always pushing herself to improve.” Frost said her time in the co-op has been a blessing. “Swimming is a huge commitment, but we all have worked so hard this year and it has been really fun to see what we can achieve,” Frost said. “We have forged some great friendships and I am really proud of the times we have all put up.  “I am going to miss my fellow swimmers and my River Valley co-captains. We feel lucky to be able to swim and that we have the opportunity to be part of a co-op.” Schultze finished 18th in the 100-yard butterfly and 27th in the 100-yard freestyle at sectionals. She was also part of Lodi’s 12th place 400-yard freestyle relay team and its 12th place 200-yard medley relay team. “Since joining the team, Annabelle has emerged as a dedicated swimmer, consistently pushing her limits, and always being hungry for more,” Price said. “She has played a vital role in all of our meets, but really shines in both the 100-yard butterfly and 100-yard freestyle. “Her impressive talent and dedication to the sport have quickly made a significant impact on the team. There’s no doubt that she will play a key role in our pursuit of victory this season and future seasons to come.” Henning also had a solid sophomore season that saw her specialize in the 50- and 100-yard breaststroke, as well as the 100-yard freestyle and the 100-yard butterfly. “Danika really hit her groove early on in the season, splitting times comparable, or faster, than her previous season bests,” Price said.