Larry A. Ryle Swim/Dive Team Shines Despite Challenges: A Season of Resilience and Record-Breaking Performances
As the 2025 winter sports season wraps up, the Larry A. Ryle Swim and Dive team has once again made waves in Kentucky’s competitive high school swimming scene. Under the leadership of Head Coach Jeff Floyd, this program demonstrated both resilience and excellence, overcoming adversity and pushing themselves toward historic achievements.
We had the opportunity to sit down with Coach Floyd for an in-depth recap of a remarkable season, where teamwork, perseverance, and individual brilliance combined to maintain Larry A. Ryle’s status as a powerhouse program.
Key Contributors: Leaders Who Drove the Team’s Success
According to Coach Floyd, the team’s success hinged on several standout swimmers and divers who not only scored critical points but also showed leadership and versatility throughout the season.
On the boys' side, the team was led by a strong core including Andy Pleiman, Chase Knopf, Chase Denigan, Garrett Dennis, Lucas Dilger, Nash Parsons, and Addison Coughenour. These athletes consistently contributed in both individual events and relays, setting a solid foundation for the team’s success.
The divers, often the unsung heroes, were equally crucial. Despite having only two seasons or less of experience in the sport, Wes Hampel, Carter Young, and Eli Evans delivered big performances at Regionals and the State meet, proving the depth and potential of the program.
On the girls' team, leadership came from several impressive athletes. University of Cincinnati signee Reese Yauger led the way alongside junior Gabriella Stephens. Senior stalwarts Clare Monahan and Payton Hatfield, junior Lydia DiVita, sophomore Hayley Yauger, and the divers—freshman Emma Albertson, sophomore Annie Kopser, and senior Ella Parke—rounded out a well-balanced group that excelled in both individual and relay events.
A Season of Challenges and Motivation
While the season featured many successes, Coach Floyd shared that the team faced several significant hurdles along the way. One defining moment was the loss of the Regional Combined title to Highlands High School—a rare setback for the program and a wake-up call.
“We chose to rest only for State, and I believe the runner-up finish at Regionals really focused us on our goal of repeating as Combined State Champs,” Coach Floyd said. This loss served as an eye-opener, motivating the swimmers and divers to push even harder for excellence. The program, rooted in celebrating history and achieving “firsts,” used this setback as fuel to elevate their performance.
Health challenges tested the team’s depth and determination. From surgeries to broken bones and various other injuries, several key athletes faced adversity. Notably, senior Clare Monahan battled back from shoulder surgery, while junior Lydia DiVita returned strong after a broken elbow.
Despite these obstacles, the team rose to the occasion when it mattered most. “I’m very proud of our kids,” said Coach Floyd. “They stepped up at PrimeTime and delivered for themselves and the program.”
Star Performers and Record Breakers
The team’s standout was undoubtedly Andy Pleiman, a Florida Tech commit who has grown through the program more than anyone else Coach Floyd has seen. Andy’s development, both in and out of the pool, played a pivotal role this season.
Andy was the State Runner-Up in the 50 Free and earned 3rd place in the 100 Free—setting school records in both events. He also led off the 200 and 400 freestyle relays, which set school records and finished third at State. His performances were a testament to years of dedication and the program’s ability to nurture talent.
Leadership on the boys’ side was also embodied by Chase Knopf (committed to Louisville), Garrett Dennis, Chase Denigan (committed to Xavier), and Nash Parsons. On the girls’ side, Reese Yauger (University of Cincinnati signee) and Gabriella Stephens helped set the tone for the team’s culture of success and commitment.
Leadership and Team Culture
This season’s senior class played a crucial role in driving the team’s energy and performance. “This program is led by those committed to success,” Coach Floyd explained. The leadership, versatility, and work ethic of these seniors helped anchor the squad through a challenging season.
The program’s emphasis on history and breaking new ground was embraced by these leaders, setting a high standard for the younger athletes who will return next year.
Looking Forward: A Bright Future
As the team looks ahead to the 2026 season, Coach Floyd is optimistic about defending their state titles and continuing the program’s tradition of excellence.
“We look forward to trying to defend our titles next season!” he said enthusiastically. Key areas for improvement will be continued development in diving and overall program growth.
The program’s focus on diving is particularly important, given how the divers stepped up this season despite limited experience. With freshmen like Emma Albertson already making an impact, the future looks promising.
Offseason Goals
The offseason will focus on fine-tuning skills and building strength to prepare for another championship run. Coach Floyd stressed that continued development across all disciplines—swimming and diving—will be critical.
“We want to keep building on the foundation we have,” he said. Strength training, technique refinement, and fostering leadership will all be priorities as the team prepares for next year’s challenges.
Where to Follow the Team
For those eager to track the progress and accomplishments of the Larry A. Ryle Swim and Dive team, all regional, first round of state, and state final results can be found on the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) website under the swim/dive tab.
Conclusion
The 2025 season for Larry A. Ryle’s Swim and Dive team was a testament to grit, leadership, and team spirit. From standout individual performances to overcoming injuries and setbacks, this team embodied what it means to compete at the highest level.
Led by Coach Jeff Floyd, the program not only aims to maintain its elite status but to build on it with a group of athletes hungry for more success.
With returning stars and rising talent ready to take on the challenge, the future looks bright for the Larry A. Ryle Swim and Dive team as they prepare to chase new records, defend titles, and continue a legacy of excellence.
, Garrett Dennis, Chase Denigan (committed to Xavier), and Nash Parsons. On the girls’ side, Reese Yauger (University of Cincinnati signee) and Gabriella Stephens helped set the tone for the team’s culture of success and commitment.
Leadership and Team Culture
This season’s senior class played a crucial role in driving the team’s energy and performance. “This program is led by those committed to success,” Coach Floyd explained. The leadership, versatility, and work ethic of these seniors helped anchor the squad through a challenging season.
The program’s emphasis on history and breaking new ground was embraced by these leaders, setting a high standard for the younger athletes who will return next year.
Looking Forward: A Bright Future
As the team looks ahead to the 2026 season, Coach Floyd is optimistic about defending their state titles and continuing the program’s tradition of excellence.
“We look forward to trying to defend our titles next season!” he said enthusiastically. Key areas for improvement will be continued development in diving and overall program growth.
The program’s focus on diving is particularly important, given how the divers stepped up this season despite limited experience. With freshmen like Emma Albertson already making an impact, the future looks promising.
Offseason Goals
The offseason will focus on fine-tuning skills and building strength to prepare for another championship run. Coach Floyd stressed that continued development across all disciplines—swimming and diving—will be critical.
“We want to keep building on the foundation we have,” he said. Strength training, technique refinement, and fostering leadership will all be priorities as the team prepares for next year’s challenges.
Where to Follow the Team
For those eager to track the progress and accomplishments of the Larry A. Ryle Swim and Dive team, all regional, first round of state, and state final results can be found on the Kentucky High School Athletic Association (KHSAA) website under the swim/dive tab.
Conclusion
The 2025 season for Larry A. Ryle’s Swim and Dive team was a testament to grit, leadership, and team spirit. From standout individual performances to overcoming injuries and setbacks, this team embodied what it means to compete at the highest level.
Led by Coach Jeff Floyd, the program not only aims to maintain its elite status but to build on it with a group of athletes hungry for more success.
With returning stars and rising talent ready to take on the challenge, the future looks bright for the Larry A. Ryle Swim and Dive team as they prepare to chase new records, defend titles, and continue a legacy of excellence.)
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