Charlotte athletes advance to state finals after weekend wins
A swimmer broke a minute barrier and a volleyball team won its first regional title in 31 years.
By Layla Richardson ·
Graysen Tilton of Charlotte High School clocked a time of 59.37 seconds in the 100-yard breaststroke this past weekend. That mark stands as his first sub-minute performance in the event.
Tilton placed second at the region 3A-3 meet held at Centennial Park in Port Charlotte. The runner-up finish secured his spot in the 3A state championship meet. That contest is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 6, at the Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training center in Ocala.
The swimmer credited Christian Guettler with pushing him during the race. “(Christian Guettler) was crazy. I just tried to go after him,” Tilton told The Daily Sun. He added that having a competitor to chase helped him perform. “I’m proud of the team. We came a long way and I’m super excited for states.”
Meanwhile, the Charlotte High volleyball team ended a 31-year drought by capturing its first regional championship since 1995. The Tarpons defeated Sunlake in a five-set match.
Senior outside hitter Sammy Vega led the team with 28 kills and 24 digs. Both totals set new team highs for the contest. She also recorded two blocks, two aces, and 28 service receptions.
Vega said the squad brought high energy to the court. “It is so great playing with these girls and going to states for the first time in forever,” Vega told The Daily Sun. She noted that the team played as a unit and gave the match their full effort.
