The Yadkin Stingrays took on reigning conference champs from Long Creek last Thursday. "All our kids stepped up big time against Long Creek," said Coach Joy Prim.

Despite a hard-fought effort, Yadkin fell to Long Creek, who has retained the conference championship for nine years.

The 11-12 Girls Freestyle Relay team was able to take a win with only three girls, opposed to Long Creek's four competing members. "That's huge for our team to step up like that," Prim said.

The meet offered a tune-up of sorts for Yadkin. "For the senior kids, Long Creek is their rival, and they're always striving to beat them in every event," said Prim.

For a few 'Rays, the meet provided an opportunity to try a new event. "Reece Warfel, Sophia Barron, and Maris Bey all swam new legs in relays," Prim said.

"We also had swimmers that were determined to get in and swim with all they had and plus some," she said.

"Riley Warfel, Cameron Burleson, Sophia Barron, Hunter Kepley, Maris Bey, Hope Medwin and Ian Medwin all swam above and beyond their normal events," Prim said.

Despite the team loss, several swimmers posted great races on the meet. Kimberly Benton, Dustin Brannam, Gina Myers, Sierra Winters, Susie Beamguard, Emma Medwin, Noah Medwin and George Vlahos, all took home first place in various events.

The 'Rays will look to rebound this evening as they travel to Glenridge/ Pinebrook.

Note: Due to technical complications, complete results will appear in the next edition of the Ripple.