Four-year swimmer helps Niagara-Wheatfield win fourth straight NFL title
By David Yarger
Tribune Editor
The Niagara-Wheatfield girls swimming and diving team has been on top of the Niagara Frontier League for four straight years. In that string of success, a fair share of swimmers have left their mark on Falcons swimming and diving. One of those girls is junior Danielle Carlson.
In seven NFL meets, Carlson won 20 out of her 21 races. The 95 percent winning percentage was key in the Falcons running the table and going 7-0 in the NFL.
At the Niagara Frontier League meet, Carlson won the 200 freestyle with a time of 1:59.21 - 11 seconds quicker than the runner up, which was teammate Maegen Mueller. Carlson also won the 100 freestyle with a time of 54.24.
One of Carlson's best feats came in the Section VI Class A Finals, where she qualified for the New York State Meet.
At sectionals, Carlson, once again, clinched the 200 freestyle with a time of 1:57.19. On top of the 200 freestyle, Carlson finished third in the 100 freestyle, guaranteeing herself a spot in states for that event, as well. Carlson's time in the event was 53.80.
Amongst some of the best in the state, Carlson finished 48th and 34th in the 200- and 100-free, respectively.
Amidst all her success this season, Falcons coach Mike Corsaro said Carlson is not only a great swimmer, but a great person, too.
"Danielle is a great character person," Corsaro said. "She's a hardworking, great teammate and a very level-headed young lady. She is excellent academically and she is always smiling."
Corsaro said Carlson and Mueller are truly the role models and future leaders of the team.
In addition to her success, Carlson is also the school and pool record holder in the 100 freestyle.
Carlson will return next fall to try and help guide the Falcons to their fifth straight NFL title.