ASN dives into the week’s top high school swimming performances, recognizing the athletes making waves in the pool. Top Performers in Swimming is presented by COLA Aquatics.
Episode 7 Reach Award: Ben Richard — Lafayette High School
2026 fall season · Presented by COLA Aquatics
Lafayette High School senior Ben Richard is ASN’s latest Reach Award recipient, recognized for his effort in the pool and his leadership as a team captain chosen by his teammates. In Episode 7, the hosts highlighted his willingness to compete wherever his team needs him, including the 100 and 200 freestyle and relay events.
Richard’s recognition also reflects the time he spends encouraging younger swimmers. The hosts described a captain who remains excited about his teammates’ progress and helps newcomers develop. The Reach Award celebrates the swimmer whose extra effort can make a difference at the wall and throughout the team. Listen around 35:10 in Episode 7 of the ASN Podcast.
Opening Reach Award: Cole Courville — St. Thomas More
2026 season · Featured in Episode 6 of the Acadiana Sports Network Podcast.
St. Thomas More swimmer Cole Courville is the first recipient of ASN’s Reach Award. A varsity boys team captain selected by his teammates for a second consecutive year, Courville was recognized for the encouragement, effort and team-first attitude he brings to the pool.
Coaches praised his positivity and his support for teammates between his own events. Courville also volunteers for difficult races when his team needs him, even when an event is not his favorite. The Reach Award celebrates the swimmer who gives that extra effort and helps the people around him succeed.
Hear the recognition around 31:14 in Episode 6. For more on local high school swimming, read our Coach’s Corner conversation with Sara Landraneu.
