Greenwich Boys Swimming Makes Waves in Record-Breaking 2025 Season
The 2025 winter season was nothing short of historic for the Greenwich High School Boys Swimming and Diving Team, led by legendary Head Coach Terry Lowe. With a roster stacked with seasoned seniors, breakout underclassmen, and some of the fastest swimmers and divers in Connecticut, the Cardinals exceeded expectations and cemented their dominance in the pool.
From All-America qualifying times to state titles and clutch performances under pressure, this year’s team didn’t just compete—they made a statement. And as the program bids farewell to a stellar senior class, the path ahead remains bright with rising stars eager to carry on the legacy.
Senior Leaders Set the Standard
It’s impossible to talk about the success of the 2025 squad without highlighting the contributions of the senior class. Luke Mendelsohn, Noah Barrett, and Jake Melley were pillars of the team’s success, bringing speed, experience, and an unrelenting drive for excellence.
Mendelsohn dominated as the top individual medley swimmer in the state, winning the State Open title and securing All-America consideration times in both the IM and breaststroke. A versatile swimmer, Mendelsohn also contributed heavily in sprint freestyle events, showcasing his range.
Noah Barrett made program history by becoming the first GHS swimmer to break 20 seconds in the 50 freestyle—blazing to a 19.88 anchor split on the 200 free relay, a moment Coach Lowe calls one of the season’s defining achievements. He also captured a State Open title in the 50 Free and ranked as the #4 butterflier in the state.
Jake Melley rounded out the trio with top-six finishes in both the 50 Free and 100 Fly, adding to the team’s freestyle depth and relay strength. All three were core members of All-America qualifying 200 and 400 Free Relays, along with freshman standout Noland Barrett.
Youth Movement Makes a Splash
While the senior class led the charge, Greenwich’s future looks equally bright thanks to an impressive crop of underclassmen who rose to the occasion.
Freshman Noland Barrett made an immediate impact, finishing in the top third of the state in the 200 Free and 5th in the 500 Free. Despite his age, Barrett didn’t just participate—he anchored championship-level relays and stood toe-to-toe with the state’s best.
Two other freshmen made headlines on the boards. Nico Kassaris and Matt McFarlane took first and third place, respectively, in state diving competitions—both earning All-America consideration scores. Their dominance added a crucial edge in meets where every point counted.
Meanwhile, freshman CJ Johnson surprised everyone with a top ten finish in the 50 Free, and his clutch performance as the anchor leg of the medley relay, which placed third in the state, solidified his reputation as one of the season’s biggest surprises.
State Trials: The Turning Point
One of the most significant moments of the season came during the State Trials, which Coach Lowe cites as a pivotal turning point. Leading into the championship meets, there were questions about depth in certain events—especially backstroke, a known weakness throughout the dual meet season.
That all changed at trials.
“Our so-called backup swimmers soared to best times,” said Lowe. “In backstroke, which had been our Achilles’ heel, we catapulted four swimmers into the top 10 in the state.”
Those four—juniors Wim McCarthy, Will Hanna, sophomore Hunter Bodey, and freshman CJ Johnson—transformed a team weakness into a competitive strength almost overnight. Their performances exemplified the team’s ability to deliver in pressure-packed moments.
Cool Under Pressure
Handling adversity with poise became a defining characteristic of this year’s squad. Whether facing tough opponents, high-stakes finals, or internal challenges, the team rose to the occasion.
“They were always at their best when the pressure was on,” Lowe said.
That mental toughness, combined with technical excellence, became the team’s calling card. From championship relays to individual swims, the Cardinals didn’t just rely on talent—they trusted their preparation and supported each other through every lane and dive.
A Legacy of Leadership
The graduating senior class leaves behind more than fast times—they leave behind a culture. A culture built on work ethic, commitment, and unwavering support for one another.
“This senior class brought tremendous leadership day in and day out,” said Lowe. “In practices and meets, they set the standard.”
And that standard won’t be forgotten. It’s now embedded in the next generation of swimmers, many of whom were mentored by this year’s senior core. That mentorship, combined with the program’s storied legacy, ensures that the future remains in capable hands.
Building Toward Tomorrow
While it’s never easy to replace the speed and leadership of a standout senior class, Coach Lowe is invigorated by the challenge.
“After graduating a terrific senior class, I look forward to lifting a younger, much less accomplished group to championship levels,” he said.
With rising talents like Noland Barrett, CJ Johnson, and Nico Kassaris leading the charge, the program is poised for continued success. The offseason will focus on sharpening strokes, increasing endurance, and building on the technical precision that defines championship-caliber swimming.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 season will be remembered as one of the most balanced and brilliant in Greenwich Boys Swimming history. Fueled by star power, team depth, and unwavering resilience, the Cardinals achieved greatness at every level—from dominating state relays to rewriting individual records.
More importantly, they’ve left behind a blueprint for the future—one forged by leadership, unity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
As the program turns the page to a new chapter, one thing is clear: Greenwich isn’t rebuilding—they’re reloading.
For full stats and results, visit www.casciac.org.
Share With