Penn-Trafford swimmer Patton Graziano searching for more gold

By: Paul Schofield
Sunday, February 25, 2024 | 11:01 AM

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Penn-Trafford senior Patton Graziano is the reigning WPIAL Class 3A champion in the 100 freestyle.

The senior has his sights on doing better things in 2024.

Graziano is competing in two events and two relays in the 2024 WPIAL swimming and diving championships Feb. 29 and March 1 at Pitt’s Trees Pool and he’d like to add a few more gold medals around his neck.

The West Virginia commit who bought home to PIAA medals in 2023 is also competing in the 100 backstroke and two yet to be determined relays. He placed eighth at states in the 100 freestyle and fifth in the backstroke.

“Patton is looking to end his career on a high note,” Penn-Trafford coach Dave Babik said. “He’s ranked No. 1 in the freestyle and No. 2 in the backstroke. He’d like to win both. He also holds the school record in both events and I’d be happy if he broke them again.”

Senior Conner Alexander is competing in both the 100 butterfly and 100 backstroke along with two relays. He was a PIAA qualifier and has a shot at being a medalist

Sophomores Aaron Burdell and Nick Marucci are in two events. Burdell is in the 50 freestyle and Marucci in the 200 freestyle.

They too will be in the relays along with junior Nick Truschel, senior Gabe Yant and senior Jake Alfieri.

“Patton and Conner have been our leaders for the past couple of seasons,” Babik said. “Conner has a shot at advancing if he swims well. We’re hoping he medals.”

Only the WPIAL champion is guaranteed a berth in the PIAA meet. The rest of the field will be determined by the top 36 times across the state.

Sophomore Laela Whetstone will be competing in two events — 50 freestyle and 100 freestyle – for the girls. Freshman Faith Whipple is also in the 50 freestyle, while freshman Delaney Race, sophomore Gabby Alfieri and senior Katie Fligger will be on relay teams along with Whetstone and Whipple.

“For the girls, we have a young talented group,” Babik said. “We’re hoping they can gain valuable experience. I feel Laela has a chance to qualify for states. We’ll see how she does.”

Paul Schofield is a TribLive reporter covering high school and college sports and local golf. He joined the Trib in 1995 after spending 15 years at the Daily Courier in Connellsville, where he served as sports editor for 14 years. He can be reached at pschofield@triblive.com.

Tags: Penn-Trafford