RallyNorth.net

Motivated by its coach, Andover wins state title 

By Christopher Smith  csmith@eagletribune.com  — Posted: Monday, November 17, 2014 2:00 am

Andover's swimming team had a relatively close meet against Chelmsford just a week ago, but the Warriors overwhelmed the Lions and the rest of the Merrimack Valley Conference Division 1 meet at Haverhill.

Andover won just five events but its depth carried the day in a 98-88 win over Chelmsford for the MVC Large title. Rachel Landry and Alison Murtagh were double winners and the Golden Warriors were inspired by a key second by Sophia Allen in the diving. Coach Marilyn Fitzgerald said AHS knew the Lions really wanted this one when they made the unusual move of wearing their "championship suits."

Acton-Boxboro beat Andover, 98-88, in a non-league matchup of arguably the top two swim teams in the state. Andover hopes its like last year when A-B also won beat Andover then the Golden Warriors took the North and Division 1 state titles. Rachel Landry, Shannon Fitzsimmons and Alison Murtagh were double winners.

Alison Murtagh won both the 200 and 500 freestyle and was on the winning 400 freestyle relay team as Andover's swim team remained unbeaten (8-0) with a 101-79 victory over Belmont.

Lizzy Troiano (100 backstroke) and Nara Norgil (200 medley relay, 200 freestyle relay, 50 free) had impressive wins and Andover won a battle of unbeatens with Lowell 94-84.

Freshmen Grace Alwan and Sophia Ju struck for individual victories for Andover in a 93-75 swim win over Billerica.

Freshmen Sophia Ju and Melissa Zhang are known for their synchronized swimming talents but now are proving to be talented traditional swimmers. They were among the Andover stars in a win over Haverhill.

Freshman Sophia Ju qualified for sectionals with a diving score of 184.65. She helped Andover win 99-82 over Central Catholic. 

Gymnast Becca Boese made her diving debut and won with 155.10 points. Andover swept every event to roll past Notre Dame-Tyngsboro.