For over three decades, Newburgh Free Academy has hosted the Hudson Valley Classic for Section IX’s swim programs. On September 6, 2025, the tradition’s newest edition proved hardly a dull affair.

Pine Bush took the championship for the ninth consecutive year, followed by Our Lady of Lourdes and Valley Central for the podium positions. The gracious hosts of Newburgh finished sixth overall, backed by a strong performance in the 200M Medley Relay.

The Classic is growing every year as more schools and programs seek to participate. For some coaches, it’s a chance to see familiar faces, unchanged despite years of running in the same swim circles. For the swimmers, a glimpse at potential competitors during the Section IX championships.

With 15 schools to participate and over 200 registered swimmers, there are few disappointing swims, according to NFA coach Lauren Lubarsky, who also swam for Newburgh Free Academy. Because Section 9 swimmers are placed in two divisions, the Hudson Valley Classic is often the only glimpse swimmers get of competitors in the other division.

“I think it’s also exciting for other teams to see all the girls they’ll most likely compete against during championships as well. It’s so early in the season that all the girls are excited and ready to race,” added Lubarsky.

Newburgh’s key performers were its foursome in the 200 Medley Relay. Eighth grader Lily Lawrence swam backstroke.

Vivian Piscitella, the breaststroke. Juniors Leah Walsh and Karli Smith handled the butterfly and anchor slot, respectively. The Goldbacks’ strong performance earned them third place in the event.

“Our 6th place finish came from a lot of our newer swimmers really stepping up to the plate and swimming hard to finish in better spots than other teams,” said Lubarsky.

The experienced Goldbacks in Smith and Piscitella were crucial in keeping their younger teammates’ spirits high on the Saturday afternoon. With top 10 finishes in the individual events, the leadership showed on the scoreboard and around the pool’s perimeter. Smith finished fourth in the 100M Free. Piscitella added a fourth-place finish in the 100M Breast.

The Goldbacks will play host again on September 15, when the Marlboro Dukes pay this season’s first and only visit.