The 2025-26 boys swimming season was an exciting journey. As it has come to a close, it’s time to celebrate the best of the best.

Below, check out the NJIC awards and honors for this winter.

 

Swimmer of the Year

Santino Ermita, New Milford/Waldwick, Sr.

Every time Ermita stepped into the pool for New Milford/Waldwick, he came away victorious.The senior went 18-0 in individual events. His speciality was the sprint events with all but three of his wins coming in the either the 50 or 100 free.

High School Swimming: Leonia vs. Rutherford on January 13, 2026
Leonia and Rutherford swimmers hit the pool for the boys 200 Freestyle in Tuesday’s high school swim meet in Rutherford. 01/13/2026Steve Hockstein | For NJ Advance

Team of the Year

Leonia/Palisades Park:

For these second year in a row, Leonia/Palisades Park won the NJIC Championships.

This time around the team also won the regular season NJIC title for the first time since 2020. Leonia/Palisades Park dominated NJIC competition with an undefeated 9-0 record with every win coming by at least 28 points.They also defeated Wayne Valley, 115-55, in the first round of the North 1, Group B Tournament before a hard-fought loss to Tenafly.

Coach of the Year

Emily Correa, New Milford/Waldwick:

Correa was named Coach of the Year by her peers in the conference as helped lead New Milford/Wadwick to a second six-year season in a row.Two years ago, her squad was 1-6 in dual meets.