Spring Lake Varsity Boys Swim Team Makes History with Culture, Commitment, and a Champions
As a former high school swimmer myself, I can testify that this sport is not for the faint of heart. The conditioning is next level, involving early morning practices (in addition to afternoon), weight training, and countless laps, all while maintaining a competitive mindset for that week’s meet. At Spring Lake High School, the 2025–2026 Varsity Boys Swim and Dive Team didn’t just compete; they redefined what it means to be a team.
Led by Head Coach Mike Homan, now in his third year with the program and bringing an impressive 37 years of high school coaching experience, this season marked a turning point built on culture, accountability, and unity.
“This team was different from day one,” Homan said. “The 2025–2026 team had a team/family first atmosphere. Everyone shared the goal of pushing one another, being accountable, and stepping up when needed.”
That mindset translated into results. After finishing sixth at last year’s MHSAA Division 3 State Meet, the Lakers set their sights higher, aiming for a top-four finish, multiple top-six swims in finals, and a top-two standing in the OK Lakeshore Conference.
But beyond the goals and rankings, it was the team's leadership that made the difference.
“Strong senior captain leadership really helped build our culture,” Homan emphasized, pointing to captains Patrick Goran, Lando Mendoza, Tyler Nutt, Alex Strauss, and Lucas Williams. “They created pride in the program and helped set the standard every day.”
The success of the season wasn’t built by swimmers alone. Homan was quick to recognize the impact of his coaching staff.
“Without the great work and encouragement of Swim Coach Brian Porter, Diving Coach Sarah Colvin, and Strength Coach Jack Mendoza, we would not be where we are today. I greatly appreciate all they do for our program.”
Throughout the season, the Lakers maintained a top-five ranking in Division 3, fueling their motivation and reinforcing their belief in what they could achieve together.
“Being ranked in the Top 5 all season kept the fire burning,” Homan said. “It pushed us to put in the work every day and strive toward both our individual and team goals.”
While standout performances filled the pool, Homan made it clear that this team’s strength came from its depth and unity.
For Homan and his staff, the impact of this group extends far beyond wins and records.
“Words cannot fully capture the emotion and excitement this team has brought to our program,” he said. “This season will go down as one of the greatest in Spring Lake swimming history.”
At the heart of it all lies a simple but powerful philosophy that defined their journey:
Coming together is a beginning.
Keeping together is progress.
Working together is success.
Keeping together is progress.
Working together is success.
Coach Homan wanted to mention some major Team Highlights
-New School Record 100 Breaststroke 59.41, Alex Strauss- Sr.
-First Team Spring Lake Team to go undefeated; 11-0
-Lakeshore Conference Champions
-Finished 4th in the D3 State Meet
200 Free Relay State Champions 1:26.03
Dane Trask-Russell Cherney-Alex Strauss-Graham Porter
5 ALL-STATE SWIMMERS
Alex Strauss-Sr
Russel Cherney-Jr
Graham Porter-Jr
Kevin Dahl-Fr
Dane Trask-Fr
ALL CONFERENCE SWIMMERS
Tyler Nutt-Sr
Alex Strauss-Sr
Lucas Williams-Sr
Russell Cherney Jr.
Graham-Porter-Jr
Arthur Fletcher-So
Kevin Dahl-Fr
Dane Trask-Fr
Team Academic All-State /All-American 3.882 GPA
Academic All-State Senior Swimmers
Patrick Goran
Lando Mendoza
Tyler Nutt
Alex Strauss
Lucas Williams