Maui Prep's Danielle Jefferies became the school's first ever state champion when she won the 100-yard butterfly in a time of 57.81 seconds. Photo courtesy of Matthew Thayer, Maui News.
On February 11, Maui Prep freshman Danielle Jefferies made history: she became the first Maui Prep state champion. Jefferies entered the preliminary round of the OC16 HHSAA Swimming and Diving Championships seeded number one in the state for the 100-yard butterfly and did not relinquish that top spot through either the qualifying or final race. In fact, Jefferies became faster as the meet wore on. At the recent MIL Championships, Jefferies swam this event in a then season-low time of 58.74 seconds. In Friday’s qualifier, she bested her time and the rest of the field with a 58.19 seconds. With swimmers from Seabury Hall and Punahou rounding out the top three qualifiers, Jefferies took the lead a the 25-yard mark and left everyone else in a fight for second place. Jefferies finished with a 57.81, a full 1.5 seconds faster than her closest competitor. Maui Prep coach Mike “Tex” Ritter was beaming proudly after the race. ”We couldn’t be more proud of Danielle. She had a wonderful season. It’s been a great season for everyone involved in our Maui Prep swim program. We hope Danie’s success motivates other students to continue to work hard and excel in the pool,” said Ritter.
Danielle Jefferies and Coach Mike Ritter celebrate after the medal ceremony.
Jefferies is one of four 2011 Pueo Scholars attending Maui Prep this year. Pueo Scholars are identified as exemplifying leadership in academics, community service, athletics, and the arts. Maui Prep will also be offering multiple Pueo Scholarships in 2012 for new students who are entering grades 9-12.
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