Long Creek High School freshman Leilani Ancheta made history at the UIL State Swim Meet on February 14th at the Josh Davis Natatorium, becoming the first state medalist in school history. Ancheta had a remarkable debut at the state swim event for Class 4A, bringing home a silver and a bronze.

“It’s crazy! I still can’t really believe it. It’s probably gonna hit me later tonight,” Ancheta said after the race. “But right now I’m just going to get a smoothie, relax, and have a good night’s sleep.”

Ancheta’s standout performances included a silver medal in the 100-yard butterfly with a time of 56.48 and a bronze medal in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 59.31. She finished just behind state champion Madeline Griffeth of Great Hearts Monte Vista, who set a new Class 4A state record in the event with a time of 56.36 in the backstroke.

Reflecting on her incredible accomplishment, Ancheta expressed gratitude for the support she has received.

“There are so many people here, and I’d just really like to thank my mom and dad for supporting me,” she said.

With her freshman season coming to a close on a high note, Ancheta has already set her sights on an even bigger goal for her sophomore year.

“Definitely want to be a state champ next year,” she said. “That’s what I’m going for.”