MOULTRIE – Napkins were used to dry crying eyes as three Colquitt County High School senior divers accomplished their goals and signed scholarship paperwork Wednesday morning.
Two of the divers – Bo Bridges and Nyla Thompson – were recruited by the University of Georgia while Ruth Anne McCranie was snatched up by Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana.
“I knew in my heart no matter what Ruth Anne would be there when I needed her to be,” said Tom Gimm, head diving coach. “It didn’t matter if it was the first dive during a competition or rallying the team, it was like this switch in her head, but I knew she would always be ready to go.”
McCranie is transitioning from a Lady Packer to a Boilermaker as she joins the 2024 women’s diving team.
“Everyone here has helped me so much,” said McCranie, with emotion in every syllable. “I want to thank my parents and coaches and everyone for being here.”
Purdue’s program has been making strides as, for the second year in a row, during the 2023 season the Boilermakers scored a 100 on the tower during a Big Ten competition, according to Bun Turner – who wrote a recap of the 2023 season on the Purdue athletic website.
Also moving into succeeding programs are the two athletes who will attend the same University – Bridges and Thompson; now, instead of having the Packer Hawg as their mascot, they will have the Georgia Bulldog cheering them on.
The aquatics program at UGA has, since its inception, sent 88 divers to the Olympic games.
Compared to most divers, Thompson is newer to the sport, having only been diving for about two years.
“I transferred from 13 years of gymnastics during my sophomore year,” said Thompson. “Most people said there was no way, but I thought I could do it.”
After putting her head down and grinding, Thompson made her goal.
“I can only describe Nyla as having determination, motivation, belief and drive,” said Gimm. “Everyday she would just come in and give her all at practice, no matter what.”
Also coming in everyday with the correct attitude is the other athlete to receive a scholarship: Bridges.
“Integrity is a trait that can not be taught,” said Gimm. “And it’s something that Bo has and I know if I ask for something from him or of the group he is going to not only do the task, but do it the way I wanted with the right intentions.”
Bridges, who Gimm also described as endlessly enthusiastic, was full of nervous energy during his moment in the spotlight.
“I want to first and foremost thank God for giving me these abilities,” said Bridges. “I also want to thank my parents because they gave me everything in their power so I could get here. So did my coaches and all y’all who are here today. It really shows what a community can do.”