Camas Papermaker Swimmers Place 2nd at State

FEDERAL WAY, WA — Where’s Camas?

That was one of the questions Camas Senior, Kasey Calwell, got after winning his Swimmer of the Year award, and after his team placed second in a 36-team competition on Saturday.

The Papermakers earned 185 points yesterday, just behind meet winner, Newport (Bellevue). It was the team’s best showing — ever. And it was the best performance of any Southwest Washington boys swim team. The overall score reflects a team that planned for this. It was a calculated performance driven by its seniors, but veraciously supported by its underclassmen.

The eight-member team took down some of the larger, competitive teams who have divers, which adds to the overall score.

2015 Camas Boys Swim Team. Top, from left: Luke Albert, Lucas Ulmer,
Tom Utas, Jeff Fadlovich, Kasey Calwell, Finn McClone, Mark Kim, John Utas.
Coaches: Mike Bemis and Leslie Dahlen. Photo by Dan Trujillo.

In addition to the 2nd place trophy and the Swimmer of the Year award, Camas took home several titles and accolades, including three individual state titles.

Calwell earned the State title for the 200 IM event (151.10) and with it an All American consideration. He also won the 100 Breast (56.53) and an All American time. Senior Lucas Ulmer won the State title for 100 Fly (51.10). He then placed sixth in the 100 Backstroke event.

“This is our best performance in school history,” said Calwell. “I’m so proud of our team. We really pulled together. We gave it our all. I don’t know how we could have swam any better. It was fun to be a part of this.”

The boys placed fourth in all the relays, and were pushed by brothers John and Tom Utas. This was also John’s final State meet.

Camas Freshman, Mark Kim, placed fifth in the 500 Free. He also assisted in the relay events.