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![Hailey holding a sign and pointing to a board on the wall]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1768925657/wsd3org/icicxcjzlqakpro6clll/HaileyLewis.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1768925657/wsd3org/icicxcjzlqakpro6clll/HaileyLewis.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1768925657/wsd3org/icicxcjzlqakpro6clll/HaileyLewis.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1768925657/wsd3org/icicxcjzlqakpro6clll/HaileyLewis.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1768925657/wsd3org/icicxcjzlqakpro6clll/HaileyLewis.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1768925657/wsd3org/icicxcjzlqakpro6clll/HaileyLewis.jpg","width":2200}])
Mesa Ridge High School is celebrating a historic milestone this season. Senior Hailey Lewis has officially qualified for the state swimming and diving championships, becoming the first female diver in school history to earn a spot at the prestigious event.
While the state competition isn’t until February 12, Lewis is already rewriting the record books. Earlier this month, she shattered a 31-year-old district pool record in the six-dive event. Even with that feat under her belt, she isn't slowing down; Lewis has two more meets to push her own record higher and will attempt to break the 11-dive record this coming Saturday.
For Lewis, this achievement is the result of years of persistence. After narrowly missing state qualification last year, hitting the mark halfway through her senior season was a moment of pure joy.
"I was ecstatic," Lewis said. "Having [my teammates'] support over the years means the world to me. Add the fact that I'm the first girl from Mesa is nearly unbelievable and such a proud moment!"
Breaking a record that has stood for over 30 years is no small task. Lewis views the accomplishment as a message to the athletes coming up behind her. She emphasizes that while long-standing records might seem untouchable, they are within reach for anyone willing to "trust the process."
"Breaking the district pool record... shows just how far a program built on support and consistency can help an athlete grow," she explained. "I hope swimmers and divers look at this as an inspiration," said Lewis.
Her impact on the team extends beyond the scoreboard. Coach Kelci Lee praised Lewis not just for her athleticism, but for her character as a teammate.
"We couldn't be more proud of Hailey!" Coach Lee said. "She has been incredibly dedicated to becoming a skilled diver. Not only is she an exceptional athlete, but she is also an exceptional teammate. She deserves all of her success."
While Lewis is currently focused on cleaning up her dives for state and preparing for club season—where she will compete on 1m, 3m, and tower platforms—her future is even more ambitious.
Lewis has been recruited to dive at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in New York. There, she will pursue a degree in Marine Engineering. Her long-term sights are set on the horizon: after graduation, she plans to commission into the U.S. Navy to serve as a Nuclear Propulsion Engineer.