Boys’ swim and dive defeated Brookline 96-80 at home last Friday in their last meet of the regular season. “They have worked hard,” said guidance counselor Patrick Manning, the head coach. “They have swam against some really good competition, and I think it finally paid off today.”

Brookline started out strong, and led 33-29 heading into the diving section. A strong performance by junior John Ryan in the diving events netted the team six points, giving North a 35-33.

Heading into the 200 freestyle relay, North found themselves down 51-65.  North’s relay teams prevailed, earning first, second, and fourth in the event. This tightened up the score at 63-67.

The match was tied 73-73 going into the 100 yard breaststroke. However, North secured the top three spots in the event behind a dominating performance from senior Jonathan Qian, a captain with senior Jason Wang. After the event, North took a commanding lead of 86-76.

Heading into the last event, the 400 freestyle relay, North needed at least a second place finisher to win the meet. North was behind at the beginning of the race, but staged a huge come from behind victory.

Qian and Wang were the last two swimmers in the pool and closed out the comeback for North. “Having our two seniors be the last two swimmers to get the win was cool to do since it was their last meet,” said Manning.

Because it was the last home meet of the season, the seniors were recognized for the efforts. “It’s not too sad,” said Wang, “but it’s heart-wrenching to know that it is going to be your last meet at North.”

North, 2-6, will compete in the Bay State Conference Championships on Tuesday and Wednesay. According to Manning, the team will “keep working” to improve for the meet.