The Parkland boys swimming team lost its first 2021 meet to rival Emmaus last Wednesday 115-68. The loss leaves the Trojans with a 7-1 regular season record.

Despite the loss, several Trojans had solid performances. Among them was Shawn Kushner. The senior finished second in the 500-yard freestyle, third in the 200-yard freestyle, in a first-place tie in the 400-yard freestyle relay with teammates Matthew Greer, Isaiah Moreef and Luke Willard and third in the 200-yard freestyle relay alongside Karl Schmidt, Moreef and Greer.

Parkland coach Robert Robitaille has high praise for Kushner.

“Shawn is what being a Trojan is all about,” said Robitaille. “He trains hard, year round, maintains a positive focus, and is one of the most coachable and attentive athletes that I’ve had the chance to work with.”

Parkland also received good swimming from Nicholas Zaffiro, who won the 200-yard individual medley, and John Fahrney, who won the 500-yard freestyle. Moreef had a tough finish in the 100-yard freestyle, claiming second place less than one second behind winner Andrew Taylor of Emmaus. Junior Harrison Kim took fourth in 100-yard breaststroke, just over two seconds off with the winning pace.

Another Trojans standout against Emmaus was the always ready diver Ethan Radio. The junior won the diving competition over teammates Ryan Beltrame and Matthew Blommel with a 261 score. His best days could be ahead.

“Dude is a stud,” noted Robitaille. “I believe that he’s just getting started. I think that he’s going to be doing some great things in the future.”

Parkland ends the regular season with a Feb. 23 battle with Nazareth, Easton and Allen. The District 11 Diving Championships are scheduled for Feb. 27 at Emmaus, with the District 11 Swimming Championships set for March 6 at Parkland. PIAA Diving and Swimming Championships are scheduled for March 13 and 20 respectively at Cumberland Valley High School.