When you are the defending state champions, opponents will give you’re their best shot at every meet.

That is exactly what the girls from Shawnee are facing this season after winning the Class 5A state title a year ago. The win marked the first swimming state title in school history. 

Leading the way is Piper McNeil. McNeil was part of the 200 medley relay team that placed first and she won both of her individual events, 200 freestyle and 100 backstroke, setting state records in both. Head coach Valarie Colburn said McNeil garnered Oklahoma Swimmer of the Year honors three times in her career. 

“McNeil has won multiple awards throughout her high school career, and she was named All-American three times,” said coach Colburn. 

Gracyn Simpson is a sophomore this season and was instrumental in helping her team win last year as a freshman. Simpson was a member of the 200 medley relay team with McNeil and a member of the 400 freestyle relay team that placed second. She also made the podium in her individual events. 

Coach Colburn also mentioned Natalie Selman as someone who is important to the team. Now a senior, Selman was a big part of the relay teams and will continue to be instrumental in helping Shawnee defend their title. 

The boys team placed fourth at state, fueling their desire to become state champions like their teammates. Ethan Oller (Sr.) placed fourth in the 100 fly and fifth in the 200 IM. His work ethic is unmatched and coach Colburn said Oller is a leader who works hard and leads by example. 

Other team members for Shawnee include Nathanule Barris (So.), Harlee Bullard (So.), Gaylon Hardman (So.), Tenielle Kidd (Fr.), Ashley McDonald (So.), Emma Oller (Jr.), Jackson Oller (Fr.), Traydn Rakestraw (Jr.), Jadelyn Shotts (Fr.), Maddox Smith (Sr.), Vincent Tash (Sr.), Kameron Williams-Heard (So.), Clara Timmons (Jr.), McKayla Tinkle (Sr.), and Dalaney Uranga (Sr.).