It feels like swimming’s version of rivalry week.
In the first of several anticipated dual meets this week, Capistrano Valley plays host today to Tesoro in a clash of top 10-ranked programs from the South Coast League.
Also today, Dana Hills plays host to San Clemente in a key Sea View League dual. The Dolphins’ boys are ranked seventh in the county, while the Tritons, featuring transfer Aidan Patel, were ranked in the county earlier this season.
Also today, look for some fast times to come from Crean Lutheran’s girls meet against Whitney at Cerritos Park East.
On Wednesday, La Habra’s improved girls play host to Freeway League power Troy. The Highlanders captured the Savanna Invitational last month.
In a nonleague meet Wednesday, Corona del Mar and Newport Harbor renew their Back Bay rivalry at Corona del Mar.
MCLAUGHLIN TO DEBUT WITH EAGLES
Katie McLaughlin appears set to join the action today. The junior is expected to make her Santa Margarita debut against visiting St. Joseph of Lakewood in a Trinity League meet, Eagles co-coach Rich Blanc said. The county-record holder in the 200-yard freestyle and 100 butterfly followed the Southern Section’s sit-out-period rule after transferring from JSerra.
FRIENDLY RIVALS
One of the best friendly rivalries has been between teammates: Edison’s Devin Newton and Nora Deleske.
The pair has dueled several times, including last week in a meet against Los Alamitos.
Deleske, a freshman, rallied in the 200-yard individual medley to edge the Texas Christian-bound Newton by 11 one-hundredths of a second with a time of 2 minutes, 6.97 seconds.
At the Winterfest meet at Mt. SAC earlier in the season, Newton edged Deleske to capture the 200 IM.
“It’s really great because we’re really good friends,” Newton said. “It’s nice to race her and actually have someone to race. It’s nice building off her.”
FINISHING KICK
The week ends with the Klaus Barth invitational finals Friday in Long Beach. Fountain Valley, Marina and Los Alamitos are the county teams expected to participate in the meet.
