April 16, 2026

Written by Leisha Masi and Dylan Parry

The Martin Luther King High School swim team took their talents to the Mt. SAC Invitational this past weekend, stepping onto a bigger stage to face off against some of the toughest competition in the region. Known for its high energy and professional atmosphere—complete with a DJ, announcers, rubber duck throws and a level of “hype” that only a major invitational can provide—the meet was the perfect environment for the Wolves to prove they can handle the pressure of a championship setting.

The weekend was defined by a series of massive time drops and milestone achievements. Chloe Clendenen, Alyssa Bian, and Victor Perez led the way by securing four CIF Automatic times, with Clendenen clocking a blistering 1:56.09 in the 200 free. In total, the team walked away with eight CIF Consideration marks, including a standout performance from Logan Brown. Brown, along with Catherine Shah, both dropped an incredible 11 seconds in their 500 free races, proving that the grueling endurance training of the past few months is yielding major results.

Perhaps most impressive was the group of JV swimmers who stepped up to compete in the varsity-level atmosphere. Athletes like Sophia Shah, Paige MacDonald, and Lillian Grote, alongside a large contingent of the boys’ JV squad including Kareem Istwani and Cameron Bobb, handled their nerves with poise. Seeing these younger swimmers thrive against elite competition suggests a bright future for the program and shows that the “big stage” isn’t too large for the Wolves.

Beyond the record board, the trip was about the memories that make high school sports special. The long bus rides, the team food stops, and the shared experience of competing under the stadium lights created a bond that will carry the team into the final stretch of the season. As the coaches noted, these invitationals aren’t just about the times; they are about building the confidence and chemistry necessary to succeed when league finals arrive. With several CIF standards now securely met, the Wolves return home with their heads high and their eyes locked on the postseason.