Following a strong 2024-2025 season, the Fort Hamilton Boys’ Varsity Swim Team had a successful 2026 campaign. The Tigers faced off against many rivals and ended the season with a solid record of 6-4. While the playoffs ended with a 53-38 loss to Francis Lewis High School, the season was still an important step forward for the team.
This season was memorable as the team improved their skills and prepared for the future. They had notable victories against the High School of Telecommunication Arts and Technology and New Utrecht High School.
“Some of the greatest achievements that the swim team made this year were making the playoffs and facing off against a strong Francis Lewis team,” said Team Captain Derek Berrera. “We also had a lot of swimmers participate in both A champs and B champs this year.”
This season also marked a coaching transition, with Coach Pellegriti taking over for Coach Forthover.
“Switching from coaching the girls’ swim team to the boys’ team has been an adjustment for me,” Coach Pellegriti said. Despite the challenges, she embraced the opportunity and is committed to figuring out the best way to coach boys and learn what motivates them. “It’s been a learning experience, but also a rewarding one,” she added.
One of the biggest improvements Coach Pellegriti noticed throughout the season was the team’s sportsmanship and morale during swim meets.
“The swimmers did a great job supporting one another, staying positive, and representing the team well,” she said. “That made a big difference as the season went on.”
Likewise, Barrera noted that team unity was a highlight of the season. “The best part about being captain is the moments when the team unites before a meet to cheer everyone on and make sure we swim our best,” he said. “Leading practices and pushing everyone to improve is what really made this season so special.”
Just as sports teams do in any season, Fort’s swim team faced challenges, especially against their biggest rival.
“Our biggest rival this year was John Jay High School,” said Barrera. “We had two really close meets with them that we unfortunately lost due to our own mistakes, irresponsibility, and not being focused. These were two very hurtful losses that we knew we should’ve won.”
Despite these challenges, the season yielded many memorable moments for the team members. Barrera shared that both away meets and home meets were incredible, but senior night stood out as the most special.
“The posters were amazing, and the energy was great,” he said. “We had a very fun practice where we played games like torpedo and volleyball. The whole season was really enjoyable because the team was always united and happy.”
Looking ahead to next year, Coach Pellegriti emphasized that every swimmer has a responsibility to the team.
“Being on a team is a commitment,” she said. “That means being on time, prepared, and fully present for practices and meets. Every swimmer plays a role, and it’s important to hold your part of the team. I really want every athlete to see how much they can improve when they truly put their heart into the sport.”
She also encourages new athletes to join. “If you are an experienced swimmer and looking to join the swim team next year, please come and see me,” she added. “We are always looking to add more talent to the team.”
With a strong foundation, sportsmanship, and a united team, the Fort Hamilton Boys’ Varsity Swim Team appears ready for more success in the upcoming seasons.
