By: Wednesday, November 13, 2024 | 9:38 PM

Mt. Pleasant swimming coach Sandy Felice has had swimmers sign NCAA Division I scholarships before.

But not four in one year.

On the first day of the early signing period Wednesday, seniors Lily King (North Carolina State), Joseph Gardner (Pitt), Kierstin O'Connor (Connecticut) and David Mutter (Alabama) inked their scholarships.

"This is a very special day for me," Felice said. "I've got tears in my eyes. I was thinking about how much I'm going to miss them next year. They are such great kids because they are such great leaders."

There is a special bond among the group because they are also great friends.

"We've been friends forever," said King, who had a lot of interest and picked North Carolina State after making five official visits. "We push each other."

King has won 11 PIAA titles and holds numerous state records in the freestyle events.

Gardner has won consecutive breaststroke titles and owns the state record in the event. He also was on winning state relays teams. He placed second in the breaststroke as a freshman.

"It's great to have the competition they provide in the pool," Gardner said. "We make each other better every day and having three other people from the same team as you that are committed at the same level as you at your sport really brings out the best in us.

"I can certainly say that without teammates that are dedicated as much as I am, I wouldn't be at this level."

Mutter, a PIAA champion in the backstroke and state record holder, said his friendship with the group started after he moved to the district from Texas.

"It's great that we get great competition every day," Mutter said. "It's neat that everyone is so close."

O'Connor also has won numerous state medals.

"It's so amazing that all four of us got scholarships," O'Connor said. "I am so grateful that I get to be a part of such an amazing team and such amazing people that surround me. I'm blessed every day. These guys motivate me every day and support me."

Softball player Gianna Stanek also signed to play at NCAA Division II Pitt-Johnstown.

Paul Schofield is a TribLive reporter covering high school and college sports and local golf. He joined the Trib in 1995 after spending 15 years at the Daily Courier in Connellsville, where he served as sports editor for 14 years. He can be reached at .