Shenendehowa Boys Varsity Swimming and Diving: A Championship Season Defined by Leadership and Legacy
2025 Winter Season Recap
The 2025 boys varsity swimming and diving season at Shenendehowa High School will be remembered as one of dominance, cohesion, and legacy. Under the leadership of longtime head coach Chuck Dunham, the Plainsmen not only compiled an undefeated 12-0 dual meet record, but they also made waves across New York State with standout performances in invitational meets and a commanding showing at the Sectional Championship.
With one of the deepest and most talented senior classes in program history, Shenendehowa’s success this winter was the product of experience, teamwork, and a culture of accountability that continues to thrive under Coach Dunham’s guidance.
A Senior Class That Set the Standard
“This was the largest senior class in my 20 years as Head Coach,” Dunham said, and their impact was nothing short of extraordinary.
The senior leadership was not only defined by talent, but by unity and a willingness to mentor the next generation of swimmers. These upperclassmen formed the backbone of the team, leading by example both in and out of the pool. They brought intensity, energy, and poise, guiding underclassmen and setting a high standard in practices, meets, and big moments alike.
“They did an excellent job of working together and helping lead the underclassmen,” Dunham shared. “They were incredibly cohesive and did an excellent job of leading our team as a unit.”
A Season of Dominance
From the first whistle to the final relay, the Plainsmen were a force to be reckoned with. Shenendehowa didn’t just win—they dominated, stringing together a perfect 12-0 season in dual meets and achieving notable success at every major event they entered.
Highlights included standout team victories at the Holiday Invitational, the Watkins Glen Invitational, and the Sectional Championship Meet, where their depth and discipline shone through.
“Our goal from the start was to win our invitational,” said Dunham. “That early success really set the tone for the rest of the season. It gave our guys confidence and motivation to push even harder.”
Each meet was marked by relentless consistency, a hallmark of Shenendehowa’s program. From top-end sprint events to distance races and diving, the team’s well-rounded performances were a reflection of both veteran leadership and the strong coaching infrastructure that’s been built over the years.
Rising Stars: The Future is Taking Shape
While the senior class was the heart of the team, Shenendehowa’s success was also powered by impressive growth from its underclassmen. Brayden Yin and Vova Stebletsov emerged as two of the program’s most exciting young athletes, making their mark while laying a foundation for future success.
“I was incredibly proud of Brayden and Vova for their tremendous growth,” Dunham said. “They pushed each other every day, and that kind of internal competition made both of them better.”
With the upcoming offseason focused on further developing the younger swimmers, these two will likely take on even greater leadership roles in 2026. Their work ethic and progress this season have already earned them recognition among teammates and coaches alike.
Overcoming Adversity with Unity
Like every great team, Shenendehowa faced its share of challenges throughout the season—be it minor injuries, fatigue, or the pressure of high-stakes meets. But what set this group apart was how they responded.
“Everyone on all teams always has setbacks. It’s how you handle those that define your character,” Dunham reflected. “Our team collectively did a tremendous job of that, as individuals and together as a team.”
This ability to stay grounded and composed under pressure played a critical role in the team’s success. Whether dealing with close races or unexpected lineup changes, the Plainsmen always rose to the occasion, buoyed by trust in each other and the coaching staff.
Looking Ahead: Building on a Strong Foundation
As Shenendehowa looks to the future, the departure of this historic senior class poses a significant challenge. The void left by so many talented and experienced swimmers won’t be easy to fill, but Coach Dunham is already laying the groundwork.
“We definitely have our work cut out for us,” he said. “But I look forward to helping the next generation get to the same level.”
Much of the offseason focus will be on mentorship and development, ensuring that rising swimmers not only refine their technical skills but also adopt the team-first mindset that has become synonymous with Shenendehowa swimming.
“We’ll be bringing along our younger guys and helping them take a big step forward,” Dunham added. That includes refining race strategies, improving strength and conditioning, and fostering the kind of internal competition that drove this year’s success.
A Legacy Beyond the Lane Lines
While the trophies and medals are symbols of the team’s success, Coach Dunham knows that what matters most is the culture being built.
This season’s team was a shining example of what happens when talent, leadership, and commitment converge. It wasn’t just about being fast in the water—it was about being resilient, coachable, and united.
Whether it was a morning practice, a relay cheer on deck, or a shared moment after a hard-fought win, these swimmers left a legacy that will inspire future Plainsmen for years to come.
Tracking the Success
For those interested in a deeper look at Shenendehowa’s performance this season, meet results and individual stats can be found on Swimcloud, where the team's outstanding season is chronicled in detail.
Final Reflections
The 2025 Shenendehowa boys varsity swimming and diving team was more than a team—it was a testament to the power of leadership, preparation, and belief.
From the guidance of a once-in-a-generation senior class to the emergence of new stars, this season marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. And while saying goodbye to such a pivotal group is never easy, the culture they helped shape ensures that Shenendehowa’s swimming tradition is in good hands.
Coach Dunham’s final thoughts capture the spirit of the season perfectly: “It was a tremendous ride. I’m proud of every one of these guys—for how they competed, how they grew, and how they represented our school.”
If this season is any indication, the lanes at Shenendehowa will continue to be filled with champions, on the stopwatch and beyond.
For team stats and more information, visit Swimcloud or contact Shenendehowa High School’s athletics department.
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