A freshman swimmer delivered a stunning comeback in the relay, helping Immaculate Heart Academy secure a decisive victory against Passaic Tech in a high school girls swimming meet. The event took place on December 8, 2025, at Passaic County Technical Institute in Wayne, New Jersey, boosting IHA’s early season momentum.
Dramatic Relay Sets the Tone
The meet kicked off with high drama in the 200 medley relay. Passaic Tech held a solid lead through the first three legs, but IHA freshman Elle Mulder turned the tide on the freestyle anchor.
She chased down the opponent in the final stretch, touching the wall just 0.16 seconds ahead. This win not only gave IHA an early edge but also qualified their relay team for the Meet of Champions with a time of 1:53.39.
Mulder’s split was an impressive 23.3 seconds. Her teammates Kimberly Zhang, Harper Eddy, and Madeline Schlereth contributed to the victory.
The crowd’s energy surged, setting a spirited tone for the rest of the competition. IHA coach Jason Schlereth noted how the team swam with pride, adapting to new roles after key graduations.
Standout Individual Performances
Elle Mulder shone beyond the relay, claiming first in the 50 freestyle with 24.92 seconds and the 100 freestyle in 56.15 seconds. She also helped the 200 freestyle relay team to a winning time of 1:44.94.
Senior Mariana Builes added to IHA’s tally by winning the 200 freestyle in 2:02.45. Sophomore Emily Schlereth dominated the 500 freestyle, clocking 5:33.08.
Harper Eddy secured the breaststroke win in 1:11. These efforts highlighted IHA’s depth, especially from swimmers stepping up to middle lanes.
Passaic Tech’s Charlize Macaranas stood out with victories in the 200 individual medley at 2:13.41 and the backstroke in 1:00.61. Julia Lo won the 100 butterfly in 1:01.34.
The Bulldogs’ 200 medley relay, featuring Macaranas, Lo, Francesca Cordero, and Danna Tapia, also hit the Meet of Champions standard despite the narrow loss.
Team Scores and Key Moments
IHA pulled away to a final score of 99-64, improving their record to 2-0. They claimed eight race wins and eight third-place finishes.
Passaic Tech, now 1-1, showed resilience by tying the score at 23-23 early on. A 1-2-3 sweep by IHA in the 50 freestyle shifted momentum.
Here are the top individual winners from the meet:
- 200 Freestyle: Mariana Builes (IHA) – 2:02.45
- 200 Individual Medley: Charlize Macaranas (Passaic Tech) – 2:13.41
- 50 Freestyle: Elle Mulder (IHA) – 24.92
- 100 Butterfly: Julia Lo (Passaic Tech) – 1:01.34
- 500 Freestyle: Emily Schlereth (IHA) – 5:33.08
- 100 Breaststroke: Harper Eddy (IHA) – 1:11
This performance builds on IHA’s title as reigning North Non-Public sectional champions.
Building on Last Season’s Success
After losing seniors like Kayla Rodriguez and Kathleen Turano, IHA has focused on team purpose. A preseason bonding event emphasized every swimmer’s role, from lanes to sidelines.
Passaic Tech, meanwhile, proved they can compete with top programs. Their boys team recently upset No. 15 Bergen Catholic, adding to the school’s swimming buzz.
In the broader New Jersey high school swimming scene, IHA ranks No. 6 in the preseason Top 20. Experts see them as contenders in their group for the 2025-26 season.
Recent trends show increased participation in girls swimming, with over 10,000 athletes competing statewide last year. This meet reflects the sport’s growing competitiveness.
Looking Ahead for Both Teams
IHA aims to maintain their undefeated streak in upcoming matches. They face a tough schedule, including potential rematches with ranked opponents.
Passaic Tech will build on their strong showings, targeting more upsets. Their relay qualification boosts confidence for state events.
Swimming fans can expect more excitement as the season progresses toward championships in early 2026.
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