The last few months have seen some great accomplishments by local high-school athletes, both in Albert Lea and the surrounding area. It culminated this weekend with an excellent placing by the Tiger boys’ swimming and diving team at the state tournament, which put a cap on a season of success for local programs.

At the swim meet, Albert Lea’s Mitch Johnson, Ethan Berg, Ben Schreiber and Ben Matheson placed 11th or higher in individual events, and all three relay teams placed seventh. The team as a whole took sixth, which, considering the intense level of competition at the state meet, was a strong placing.

Swimming doesn’t always get the attention of other sports, but that doesn’t diminish the accomplishments of these gifted athletes. With an undefeated season in the Big Nine and a conference championship under their belts, this year’s swimming and diving team was truly something special.

Other sports saw success for local teams, as well. Many Albert Lea, USC and NRHEG wrestlers competed at state, with Albert Lea’s Adam Elseth wrestling for the state championship in his weight class and others placing high as the proud and always competitive Albert Lea wrestling program continued its success.

The accomplishments of the girls’ hockey team are also worth noting. The team wrapped up its season one win away from the state tournament. The maturing program, led by a group of young players, has an even brighter future ahead.

The winter sports season saw these and other highlights in Albert Lea. Many teams and individuals got a taste of the intense playoff atmosphere and pressure that not only will make them better athletes, but people who are better-equipped to handle the pressures of life.

Tribune editorials represent the opinion of the newspaper’s management and editorial staff.