Pioneers Swim Team captures fourth consecutive state championship

The Batesville Pioneers boys’ swim team capped off another dominant season by winning its fourth consecutive 5A State Swimming Championship, marking the fifth state title in program history. The victory also secured the team’s sixth straight conference championship and seventh overall.

The Pioneers broke multiple records at the 5A State Swimming and Diving Championship, underscoring their dominance. The 200-yard medley relay team of Sam Smith, Parker Rodgers, Sawyer Rudisill, and Dewey Rodgers set a new state record with a time of 1:41.52, surpassing the previous record of 1:43.87 set by the 2022 championship team. The 400-yard freestyle relay team—composed of Dewey Rodgers, Parker Rodgers, Sawyer Rudisill, and Ethan Insell—also set a state record with a time of 3:18.02.

Individually, Dewey Rodgers made history by breaking the 50-yard freestyle state record with a time of 21.02, surpassing the previous record set in 2018 by former Batesville standout Seth Bailey. Additionally, the team set a new school record in the 200-yard medley relay with a time of 1:40.84, though it was not recognized as a state record since it was not achieved at the championship meet.

The boys’ team finished the state meet with 367 points, securing first place. Key performances included:

• Sawyer Rudisill – 1st place in the 200-yard individual medley and 100-yard breaststroke.

• Dewey Rodgers – 1st place in the 50-yard freestyle and 2nd in the 100-yard backstroke.

• Parker Rodgers – 3rd place in the 200- and 500-yard freestyle events.

• Ethan Insell – 1st place in the 100-yard freestyle and 2nd in the 200-yard freestyle.

• Sam Smith – 4th place in the 100-yard backstroke and 100-yard breaststroke.

• Jackson Insell – 3rd place in the 100-yard butterfly and 6th in the 100-yard backstroke.

The Batesville girls’ team also had a strong season, finishing fourth in the conference meet and 10th at the state championship. Senior Parker Coggins led the team, placing sixth in both the 100-yard backstroke and 200-yard individual medley, while also competing in relay events.

Coaches praised the team’s dedication and performance throughout the season.

“This team’s success goes far beyond the titles and records,” said head coach Khang Nguyen. “It reflects their relentless dedication, resilience, and the strong bond they’ve built with one another. They push each other to improve daily, which makes this group special. I’m incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished and even more proud of who they are as teammates.”

Assistant coach Alfredo Aleman highlighted the athletes’ perseverance.

“These athletes came into every race with a purpose, focused and determined to give their best,” Aleman said. “They embraced the challenge, supported each other, and rose to the occasion when it mattered most. Their hard work paid off, and they emerged as champions and a team that truly defines perseverance and excellence.”

Image: Batesville School District