Principia Swimming celebrated its 2026 Senior Night by honoring four outstanding student-athletes whose impact on the program reaches far beyond the pool: Marina Benson, Paige Bradley, Savannah Galliway, and Ruby Ackermann.
Each senior has contributed uniquely to the team's success. Marina Benson joined the program this year as a diver and quickly became a versatile contributor in sprint freestyle and backstroke, bringing quiet confidence, steady improvement, and leadership shaped by her deep involvement across campus. Paige Bradley returned to the team after a two-year break and immediately made her presence felt, bringing joy, determination, and a willingness to step into any event the team needed. Savannah Galliway, a co-captain, exemplified independence and discipline as both a swimmer and diver, taking ownership of her training and setting an example through focus and self-motivation. Ruby Ackermann, a four-year member and two-year co-captain, has been a cornerstone of the program, leading with consistency, compassion, and a calm, uplifting presence that teammates rely on.
The meet itself reflected the spirit of the evening. While Principia ultimately fell to Ursuline (71–107), the energy from the team and the crowd was unmistakable. One of the highlights came at both the beginning and end of the meet with senior-only relays. In the final event, the 400 freestyle relay, Paige and Ruby recorded lifetime-best splits, while Marina and Savannah posted season-best splits, combining for the team's fastest 400 freestyle relay time of the season. The 200 freestyle relay also achieved a state consideration time.
Overall, the Panthers recorded four first-place finishes, 20 season-best swims, and eight lifetime-best swims, a fitting reflection of the growth, effort, and resilience that define this group.
Senior Night served as a powerful reminder of what makes Principia Athletics special: commitment, character, and a team culture rooted in support and growth. These four seniors have left a lasting mark on the program, and their influence will be felt long after the final race.
