The goal of any team is to finish better than you started. Improvement means the hard work and dedication has paid off. A quick perusal of Smyrna High swimming tells us it was once again mission accomplished.
As one of the proudest athletic programs in Rutherford County high school sports, the Smyrna Bulldogs have continued to build upon a proud tradition. Choosing not to rest on the seven consecutive Rutherford County Swimming Championships (2004-2010) or the numerous division titles accumulated in their 36-year history, these aquatic canines have remained rather cantankerous.
The 2023-24 edition has provided head coach Tony Trumphour and all the alumni with plenty to smile about. Working hard throughout, these Bulldogs used dedication and determination as building blocks for improvement.
“This group was fantastic to work with because they were all very competitive”, says Trumphour, the only swim coach in Smyrna high history. “We had great leadership and the work ethic helped everybody get better as our season moved forward.”
Trumphour used a goal-oriented format to help gauge the progress of his group. Entering the Region Swim Meet, target times for each swimmer were established in an attempt to help individuals raise the bar. Michael Cook (200 individual medley), Carson Lifferth (50 freestyle, 100 breaststroke), John Macleod (50 and 100 freestyle), Austin Mills (200 freestyle) and Gabriel Sutherland (100 butterfly) all hit the bullseye. The boys 200 freestyle relay team of Kaden Jackson, Carson Liffereth, John Macleod, and Austin Mills also turned in a season best effort in finishing in the top 16 at the Region.
During the illustrious history of Smyrna high swimming, Trumphour has documented times and has compiled a top ten in every event. Two Bulldogs from this squad have added their names to this hallowed list. Carson Lefferth registered the seventh best time in the 100 breaststroke while Austin Mills placed his name in the ninth fastest slot in both the 200 freestyle and 100 freestyle.
“When you think about all the swimmers that have walked through these doors, swimming a top ten time is an accomplishment”, says Trumphour. “I am really proud of these two young men.”
Smyrna completed their season with five swimmers testing the waters at the Tennessee State Swimming Championships. Kaden Jackson, Michael Cook, Carson Lifferth, john Macleod, and Austin Mills all flew the purple and gold at Tennessee’s biggest event.
“We had a great season, but one of the most encouraging things is the improvement of the up and coming swimmers”, says Trumphour. “Having former Bulldog swimmer Tyler Addison as an assistant really was a major benefit for all of us. We had lots of fun and are looking forward to getting the majority of this team back next year.”
