1st-year Penn Hills diver qualifies for WPIAL meet

By: Josh Rizzo
Sunday, February 16, 2025 | 11:01 AM

Mikael Epperson had to retrain his thought process if he was going to become an effective diver for the Penn Hills swim team. The Indians sophomore chose to come out for swimming for the first time this year after previously competing in track and field.

“About halfway through the season was when I was able to feel confidence,” Epperson said.

Epperson was able to deliver on his beliefs during a recent meet at Linton Middle School. He hit a personal-best score of 200.75 to qualify for the WPIAL Class 3A championships. That wasn’t something he thought would be possible at the beginning of the season.

“I had to change how I thought about diving,” Epperson said. “In my head, I was thinking about flipping before jumping. I had to know the process was jump, jump and then think about flipping.”

Epperson said he would like to continue to raise his score. Penn Hills’ school record in diving is held by Zak Clapp, who qualified for the PIAA Class 3A state championships in 2005 and placed third at WPIALs.

Luke Hoolahan was the last Penn Hills diver to qualifier for WPIALs in 2021.

Penn Hills diving coach Maureen Scuro said that any new diver has the same fears to work with.

“You have to flip and twist, knowing that you can smack the water hard,” Scuro said. “You can get a little hurt and go again.”

Scuro said the growing pains haven’t deterred Epperson from continuing to improve.

“He’s followed directions well,” Scuro said. “His confidence has improved tremendously.”

Epperson has also tried out a few swimming events as well. He has competed in the 100 breaststroke and 100 free this season. He felt the transition from the track to swimming right away.

“When I got in the pool the first time, I could barely do 25 (yards),” Epperson said. “I learned that even if your body feels tired, you can use your mind and continue to push. This season has been fulfilling. I appreciate my team’s support. It’s helped me learn and grow.”

Tags: Penn Hills