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Centennial Junior Headed to State Diving Championship
February 24, 2021 -- Alec Proudfoot knew from his point totals at this year’s District Swimming and Diving championship there was a good chance he would be headed to a place he’s never been before: the State Championship. “It’s still sinking in,” said the Centennial junior who dominated the diving competition, finishing with 476.35 points to top a four-competitor district field.
As a sophomore, Proudfoot came close to qualifying for the state championship last year but lost by just nine points. “This year, I worked with my coach and pushed myself to be better and increase the level of difficulty,” said the Centennial High School junior.
The 17-year-old started diving when he was eight years old at the urging of his mom. Several coaches, including Centennial Swim Coach Leanne Rubadue, have encouraged Proudfoot to swim and dive through the years. “I encourage Alec to do both, but Alec’s love is diving for sure,” said Rubadue. “So true,” said Proudfoot, chuckling. “I have had many conversations with Coach Rubadue about swimming, but the thrill of diving is what I love. Jumping so high and feeling as if you are stuck in the air for a few seconds is just amazing.”
Proudfoot and his teammates had a shortened season this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and because of state and local health protocols, his parents were not at the pool in Blacklick when he learned that he qualified for states. “It was kinda weird, but my mom, dad, and grandma were in the parking lot at Centennial when I got off the team bus, so we celebrated then,” said Proudfoot.
The state boys meet where Proudfoot will compete is Feb. 25 at Branin Natatorium in Canton, a day after the state girls meet at the same site. He is waiting to hear if at least one family member can attend.
Proudfoot will be in the pool five days a week between now and then, training for two hours each day. “I will also eat a lot of healthy foods, a combination of protein and carbohydrates,” said Proudfoot, who maintains a 3.3 GPA.
The junior plans to continue diving after he graduates from Centennial High School. “Right now, I’m looking at the University of Kentucky and West Virginia University because both have good swimming and diving programs.”