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SOTA's Eli Dobbs Races to Personal Best at NYS Swimming Championships

(March 11, 2025) With determination and speed, Eli Dobbs made waves at the New York State Swimming Championships this past weekend, representing the RCSD’s United Swim team on one of the biggest stages in high school swimming. The School of the Arts junior raced in the 100-yard backstroke at Ithaca College, securing a personal best time of 59.21 seconds and finishing 14th out of 51 swimmers.

Dobbs’ performance continues a strong season for the RCSD swim program, which saw both boys and girls excel in competition. In November, Natalia Sierra-Wardlow, a standout on the girls’ swim team, competed in the NYS Championship in Webster, racing in the 100-yard backstroke.

Coach Mike McNelis praised the team's efforts throughout the season, noting, 'It was a strong season for both boys and girls teams.”

Please join us in congratulating Eli on this well-deserved accomplishment!