The Mercer Island School District held a regular meeting on March 16, 2025, which featured a special recognition segment for Connor Carson, the district's newest state champion in diving. The meeting began with a celebratory introduction of Carson, who achieved the remarkable feat of winning the state championship as a freshman, alongside victories at the district and Kingco championships.
Coach Ed Artis, who has been coaching since 1997, praised Carson's exceptional talent and composure, noting the unique challenges divers face compared to other aquatic sports. He highlighted the pressure of performing in front of large audiences and the skill required to execute multiple dives successfully. Artis described Carson as a "generational type of diver," emphasizing that such talent is rare and expressing excitement for his future in the sport.
Carson himself reflected on the competitive nature of the state meet, acknowledging the close competition and the support he received from his teammates, which contributed to his success. He expressed pride in his achievement and noted that the team finished fifth overall, with his performance being a significant factor in that outcome.
The meeting concluded with a photo opportunity to commemorate Carson's achievements, marking a proud moment for both the athlete and the Mercer Island School District community. The recognition of Carson's accomplishments underscored the district's commitment to celebrating student success in athletics.