Anderson Aquagators win fifth straight NVAL title

The Anderson Aquagators captured their 5th straight North Valley Aquatics League seasonal title last weekend, according to Marc Soares, coach of the Anderson Aquagators.

The Aquagators were able to capture first place 1,639 points and competed against 13 seasonal teams.

Top point scorers for Anderson, who received trophies, were Chris James, Eric James, Ridge Peterson, Travis Serna, Taylor Serna, Alex Szymanski, Matt Bohlin, Kayla Spratt, Kendall Brown, Carson Lowry and Royce Lowry.

"Our kids flat out rocked, and it was contagious," said Soares. "One of our our kids would knock the doors down in a race, then others would follow suit. In my 8 years of coaching the Aquagators, I haven't seen anything quite like it. Our teenagers pulled in the most points, but our little ones made huge improvements in their times."

The newer and younger swimmers were able to lower their time significantly and scored, said Soares, who listed off Cheyanne Bradley, Maddie Brindley, Jericho Strege, Belle Strege, Emmy Lindsey and Jillian Cort.

Soares will coach 11th season at WV

"Yes, I'll be coaching the West Valley swim team again," said Soares, who has coached West Valley's swim team for the past 11 years. "I believe the guys can win their 11th straight NAL (Northern Athletic League) and Division 2 championship, and have a shot at the NSCIF (Northern Section California Interscholastic Federation) title as well."

Accoding to Soares, the NSCIF title includes most high schools north of Sacramento.

"The girls have a good shot at their 3rd straight Division 2 title and 7th straight NAL crown. We should have about 55 swimmers on the team, and we just got in the water for practices," said Soares.

West Valley will kick off their swimming season in Red Bluff competing in the Red Bluff Relays on Thursday, Sept. 2. The teams first home meet will be Wednesday, Sept. 8.