For the first time in school history, two Newton County swimmers earned medals at the MHSAA Class I State Championships on Oct. 19. Mason Cheatham secured a bronze in the 200-yard freestyle, becoming the first boys’ swimmer from Newton County to win a state medal. Cheatham also set a new school record with a time of 1:56.86, shaving more than three seconds off his previous mark.
Later in the competition, Edie Pippin claimed another bronze for Newton County, placing third in the 100-yard freestyle. Pippin’s medal is the fourth in the five-year history of the girls' swimming program. Both Cheatham and Pippin, sophomores, are now the youngest state medalists in Newton County’s program history.
Additional Highlights
Cheatham finished fourth in the 100-yard backstroke, setting a new school record of 1:00.10.
Pippin also placed fourth in the 200-yard individual medley.
Easton Baker set two new school records: 1:03.66 in the 100-yard butterfly and 1:10.90 in the 100-yard breaststroke, finishing sixth in both events.
In the relay events, Newton County swimmers also achieved strong performances and new milestones:
Boys 200-yard medley relay: The team of Maddux Cheatham, Mason Cheatham, Easton Baker, and Gage Barnett placed sixth and set a school record.
Girls 200-yard medley relay: Erin Tullos, Mary Lee Gregory, Edie Pippin, and Emma Ward finished fourth.
Girls 200-yard freestyle relay: KaiDee Faith Hill, Mary Lee Gregory, Emma Vaughn, and Rhaley Easley took sixth place.
Girls 400-yard freestyle relay: Erin Tullos, Emma Vaughn, Emma Ward, and Edie Pippin placed sixth.
This record-setting state meet marks a major milestone for Newton County’s swim program, which continues to grow in strength and competitiveness. Both Pippin and Cheatham will return next season with two more years of eligibility, promising an exciting future for the team.
