The Willmar Aquatic Racing Stingrays capped off a remarkable 2025-26 season this past Saturday with a celebration honoring the dedication and achievements of their young swimmers and divers. The team banquet was a testament to a year of hard work, recognizing athletes across a wide range of accomplishments.

Beyond the impressive tally of awards, the night highlighted the core values of the club. Noelle Becker was celebrated with the Outstanding Ambassador Award, while Soren Newberg and Samantha Arends received Senior Scholarship Awards for their contributions. The team also honored its state qualifiers and those who earned mile certificates, marking significant personal milestones in the pool.

A special round of applause was reserved for the team's record-breakers, a group that included Lila Arcilla, Dominick Devine, Manny Heinen, and many others who pushed their limits this season. Coaches' awards were presented to athletes like Macy Anderson, Alec Lorenz, and Eve Madsen for their exemplary attitude and effort, while High Point winners, including Logan Devine, Hailey Fernelius, and Cora Martinka, were recognized for their competitive excellence.

"We're so proud of everything our swimmers accomplished this year," said Stingrays assistant coach Jodi Fernelius. "Their hard work really shows." The sentiment echoed the spirit of a team that began training last September and competed tirelessly from October through March.

As members of USA Swimming, the Stingrays draw dedicated athletes from schools across the Willmar area and beyond, fostering a community united by a love for the sport. The banquet served as a perfect finale, celebrating not just the fastest times, but the perseverance, sportsmanship, and team spirit that define youth athletics.