The Perry Jayettes swim team has built a reputation as a consistent force in Iowa high school swimming, and 2025 is shaping up to be no different.  The team is riding a four-year streak of qualifying for the State Swim Meet, and this year, they’ve already begun to make waves.

For the first time, the annual State Championship will move from its traditional home in Marshalltown to the University of Iowa’s Recreation and Wellness Center in Iowa City.  The two-day event will be held November 13 and 14, and one Jayette has already secured her place.

Junior standout Aleah Karolus has prequalified in both the 50 and 100 freestyle events.  Her performances this season have caught the attention of not only her coaches and teammates, but also statewide rankings.

“Pre-qualified in the 100 free and she ended up lowering that time in the relay,” said head coach Jean Dowd.  “She got a 54.04, so that was pretty amazing — and she dropped her 50 free time a little farther.  Her personal best time, and she currently has the top time in the state.”

Karolus’s speed and determination have made her a front-runner heading into the postseason.  But there’s still work to be done for the rest of the Jayettes.

Perry has two regular season meets remaining, including a road trip to Algona on Thursday and a home meet for Senior Night on October 28 — both crucial final opportunities for more swimmers to prequalify for State.

The postseason heats up with Regional competition set for Saturday, November 8, where athletes who haven’t yet qualified will have one last shot to secure a lane in Iowa City.

With strong leadership, returning experience, and rising talent like Karolus, Perry Swimming looks ready to keep its impressive streak alive — and maybe add some hardware to the trophy case along the way.