Judge Memorial state championship girls' swim team honored by Utah House of Representatives

Intermountain Catholic

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SALT LAKE CITY — The Judge Memorial Catholic High School state girls’ swim team was honored with an official citation at the Utah State Capitol’s House of Representatives on Feb. 17. Rep. Jackie Biskupski (D), House District 30, issued the invitation.

"When I heard of the accomplishment of the Judge girls’ team, their eighth state title in nine years, I knew we had to get the girls here to honor them," said Biskupski. "Their commitment and determination is an inspiration to young girls everywhere, and indeed, to all of us."

The Utah House of Representatives official citation signed by Speaker Rebecca Lockhart and Rep. Biskupski honoring the team reads as follows:

"Judge Memorial Catholic High School Bulldog Girls’ Swimming Team: In recognition of winning the 2011 Utah High School Athletic Association 3A State Championship, the eighth state championship in nine years. We applaud Judge Memorial Catholic High School’s outstanding achievements and commitment to the lives of Utah’s youth."

During the reading of the citation and the standing ovation by Utah’s state representatives, Rep. Biskupski submitted Bill HJR 35, a "Utah Mitochondrial Awareness Week." The bill passed the House on Feb. 18 and has moved on to the Senate for consideration. This year alone, the Judge swimmers raised more than $1,000 that will go directly towards research of mitochondrial diseases. Lily Finnigan, the daughter of head coach Matt Finnigan, was diagnosed with the disease at 16 months; she is now 8.

"What a great experience for all of us," said Sarina Karwande, senior captain. "To receive the citation, and a standing ovation, and to be recognized for our hard work was gratifying. Having Lily there with us made it really special."

Each of the girls received a personalized signed citation, as did head coach Finnigan and his daughter, Lily.

Before swimming the final race of the tournament, the girls’ 400 freestyle relay team dedicated their race to Lily. The girls went on to win the event and bring home their 10th overall state title, with juniors Katie McMahon, Marisa Bush, Cassandra Cokl and freshman Amelia Wolfgramm swimming 3:46.41, taking more than 9 seconds off their season best time.

Members of the 2011 Judge Memorial State Champion UHSAA 3A Girls’ Swim Team are Erica Azad, Chloe Brashear, Marisa Bush, Cassandra Cokl, Alyssa Corbett, Addie Diamond, Lizzie Gibbs, Anne Henkels, Sarina Karwande, Emma Kitterer, Mary Morgan, Katie McMahon, Emily Murnin, Alicia Murphy, Elizabeth Reynolds, Isabel Romano and Amelia Wolfgramm. The girls were coached this year by Finnigan, Erik Bowen, Audrey Jones and Jonathan Hsu.