Excel Awards Presented

Wilson County Duo Receive Swim Team Awards

May 2, 2007……Two Wilson County swimmers, Bradley Gillilan of Lebanon and Madison Blackwell of Mount Juliet, recently were awarded the prestigious “Excel Award” from Excel Aquatics for their achievements this past Short Course Season.

The Award is given annually at the Excel Spring Banquet to a select few recipients in each training squad, and is based on Good Sportsmanship, Dedication, Positive Attitude, and Leadership within the squads. Out of 350 swimmers over three training locations, only 14 swimmers received the honor of the Award.

Gillilan, a Freshman at Lebanon High School, is a multi-year winner of the award. “Bradley exemplifies the work ethic and “can do” spirit that we look for in our older swimmers.” Excel Coach John Barnes stated. “He steps up to any workout challenge that we give them, he works hard, has no real complaints, and pushes everyone in the Gold Training Squad on a daily basis. He encourages his training partners to step up and reach beyond their pre-conceived notions of what they can do.”

“Last year we had Kyle Lee who was the leader in the water. After Kyle graduated and went to swim at the University of Alabama, Bradley has stepped up and is learning to be a leader although only a Freshman.”

Blackwell, a rising 8^th Grader who is Home Schooled, won her first Excel Award. “Madison only started training with us about 16 months ago and has done a phenomenal job both in training and in meets, quickly becoming a Southeastern Swimming Qualifier, the only 12&Under Girl in the county to achieve that this past short course season.” Barnes noted. “She trains with our Silver 1 Squad, and leads the squad in attendance and attitude.”

“Madison has a tremendous upside on her swimming abilities, and is proficient in her stroke techniques. The next step is for her to start applying strategy to her races of 100 yards and longer, and when she does that, I believe that you will see some amazing things from her. She is already the top Middle School age girl in Wilson County, and in a few years will be the top High School age girl if she continues to keep her great attitude and work ethic.”

For more information on competitive swimming visit www.SwimWilsonCounty.com.