Xavier swim captured a victory in the AMDG invitational on Saturday in the team’s final meet before the state championship. The win comes as the team’s final preparation to defend its state title.

Xavier sophomore Mia Rankin won the 100 freestyle and 50 freestyle. In the 50 free, she out-touched several of her teammates to place first with a time of 25.19 seconds.

Freshman Gracie Munk also won both of her events, placing first in the 100 butterfly and 100 backstroke.

Junior Vica Dow said this invitational was important for the swimmers to prepare for the upcoming state championship.

“I really got into it and I was dropping time. I wanted to get ranked higher next weekend,” Dow said. She finished first in the 200 freestyle with a new personal best time of 1:56.18.

Coach Mark Rankin said he was proud of his team’s effort but needs more preparation before the state meet.

“We had some girls who needed to step up and did, which was great. We’ve had some sickness going on but most of our girls are safe and in for next week,” he said.

Rankin is proud of the progress his team has made and anticipates a successful state tournament next weekend.

“I’m blessed to have this opportunity to coach this team," Rankin said. "I’m really looking forward to next week. These girls are going to do really, really well.”

Dow couldn’t contain her excitement when she talked about next week’s meet.

“I am so excited. On my 200 free today, I felt so relaxed and confident, so I feel like I can bring it next week,” Dow said.

Rankin said he looks forward to the final week of practice before state.

"We'll be backing them down all week. We're all looking forward to a little rest before we race that clock next week," Rankin said. 

The Gators will compete at Skyline Aquatic Center next Friday and Saturday in defense of their state title.