The Liberty County Recreation Department Hammerheads swim team earned its first team trophy with a third-place finish at the Swampland Invitational meet June13. Five Hammerheads competed against swimmers from seven other swim teams from various counties.

"These kids went against great odds by competing as a squad of five and managed to pull it off by bringing home the first trophy for Liberty County as team by placing third," Coach Susan Baker said. "I thought with the talent I took to the meet we would do well but I had no idea, we would bring home LCRD’s first team trophy."

The coach said the results were outstanding as her swimmers paced through several events.

Earning a first place finish in the freestyle, backstroke, butterfly and breaststroke was Margaret Turner, 14. For her effort she brought a first place high point trophy for the 13 - 14 girls age group. Julianna Morris, 10, competing against a seasoned group, persevered to bring home the first place high point trophy for the 9 - 10 girls age group.

Joshua Morris, 8, managed to pull out a first place finish in all four strokes for the 7-8 boys’ age division.

Kirsten Morris, 13, raced a tough heat placing third earning the high point trophy in the girls’ 13-14 age class.

The final competitor is a new member of the Hammerheads. Makenna Rhea, 10, showed her talents by placing well in all her events within a very competitive age group. Rhea’s points added to the team’s score helping them earn the third place finish.

"Bringing home this trophy was a whole group effort and knowing this was Liberty County’s first swimming trophy made swimming all worthwhile and exciting," said Margaret Turner. "It’s an exciting time Liberty County knowing we were a part of history."