CAST Hosts Second Meet

By Clinton Courier | September 18, 2025 |

Clinton Arrows Swim Team’s second annual Invitational Meet was held on September 13 against Germantown, Jackson Public Schools, Madison Central, Ridgeland High School, and St. Andrews with many thanks to the GRIT Training Facility for accommodations. Both CAST Women’s and Men’s Teams came in fourth.

CAST members qualified for additional events in the North State Swim Meet to be held October 4 in Cleveland:

Women’s 200 Yard Individual Medley: Ellie Rushing, Ashlee Sumrall
Women’s 100 Yard Freestyle: Abbie Rushing
Men’s 100 Yard Freestyle: Ross Gordon
Women’s 100 Yard Breaststroke: Kate Gilliam, Abbie Rushing

Swimmers who placed in the top three of their events were as follows:

Men’s 200 Freestyle: Hayes Montgomery
Women’s 200 Yard Individual Medley: Ellie Rushing, Ashlee Sumrall
Men’s 100 Yard Butterfly: Hayes Montgomery
Women’s 100 Yard Freestyle: Ellie Rushing
Men’s 100 Yard Backstroke: Reed Watts

Alyson Sumrall, mom of senior Ashlee Sumrall and freshman Abby Sumrall, says it perfectly. “You couldn’t ask for a better group of swimmers. This group rallies around one another both on and off the swim deck. Many have built lasting friendships through many years of swimming! It is all because Coach Marcy is an awesome coach who cares for each and every swimmer. She pushes them to be their best, and her contribution is and has been unparalleled. In addition, Patrick Kieffer’s help and guidance has been very much appreciated by all. That is what makes a great team. Go Arrows!”

While the weekend didn’t unfold exactly as planned, the team adapted with calm focus and contagious energy. Swimmers stayed upbeat, Coach Marcy kept things steady, parents pivoted volunteering efforts, and families brought their usual warmth and support. It was a reminder that flexibility and team spirit can turn any meet into a meaningful success. Coach Rushing and CAST hope supporters will come out to the Last Chance meet to be held September 27 also at the GRIT in Flowood.