Winton Woods High School senior Manuel McMenemy left it all in the pool when he swam in his last two races of his high school career at the Division I State Swimming Finals for the Para Athlete Division in Canton, Ohio. It was his second time competing at state. He placed bronze in the 50 freestyle and the 100 backstroke, and shaved seven seconds off his 100 backstroke time. A time he had previously dropped seven seconds off last year at state. “When he got out of the water I was so happy for him,” said Winton Woods Head Swim Coach Cindy Kamp. “What an amazing end to his high school career, representing his high school proudly. He and the other para athletes received standing ovations from the spectators. We are grateful for the opportunity to have para athletes at the State level.”
When asked how it felt to go to state for the second continuous year McMenemy said “it felt good”. His most memorable and great moment was simply being there and being part of such an exciting event! He swims because it's good exercise. “He never gives up, complains, or says I can’t do it or don't want to,” said Coach Kamp. “He has so many physical adversities to get over but you would never know that. He keeps pushing forward. He figures it out. He’s a fantastic kid.” McMenemy said it is such an honor to train and swim for such an amazing coach that believes in me.