The expectations that come with being ranked first in the state in two events may seem daunting, but Butler swimmer Laura Goettler receives an even greater impetus to succeed from another source.

“I put more pressure on myself to do well than anybody,” said the sophomore. “Sometimes, I feel a bit overwhelmed, but for the most part, I'm used to it.”

Goettler has the best time in the state in the girls 200-yard individual medley (two minutes, 2.49 seconds) and 100 breaststroke (1:02.89) entering the PIAA Class AAA Championships, set for Wednesday and Thursday at Bucknell University's Kinney Natatorium in Lewisburg.

Her time in the individual medley is .36 seconds faster than second-ranked Claudia Thamm of North Penn. The former is .55 seconds faster in the breaststroke than Moon's Leah Baker, who placed second to Goettler in the event at WPIALs earlier this month.

Goettler's goals at states are centered around time, including 1:01 or better in the breaststroke and an even two minutes in the 200 IM. She placed 14th and 9th, respectively, in the events at last year's state meet.

Practicing for and competing in such high profile meets has not dulled the luster of the sport for Goettler.

“I'm still able to enjoy myself,” she said. “I still enjoy swimming every day.”

Class AA

Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic's field of state swimming qualifiers includes a sister act.

Senior Brooke Carmazzi and freshman Brittney Carmazzi will both compete at the PIAA Class AA Championships, scheduled Friday and Saturday.

“They are two different types of swimmers,” said Trojanettes' coach T.J. Barry. “Brooke is a cerebral swimmer. She's a tactician because she thinks about her races and knows how to pace herself. Brittney is a monster in the water.”

Two different styles that have rewarded both swimmers. Brooke placed third in the 500 freestyle and fourth in the 200 individual medley at WPIALs and will swim in both events at Bucknell.

“The WPIAL meet wasn't all I hoped it would be,” said Brooke, “but I am hoping to make up for it at states. I want to go 2:10 in the IM and 5:14 in the 500.”

Brittney was runner-up in the 100 butterfly at the WPIAL meet and looks for a solid showing in her first trip to states. She was ranked first in the district in the butterfly prior to that competition.

“I was surprised I was seeded first going in,” said Brittney. “The nerves got to me, more so than in club (swimming) and I think I put too much pressure on myself. But it still turned out OK.

“I'm just a freshman and I'm not worried where I place at states. I just want to go out and do my best.”

Brooke has faced the pressures of the state meet before and has a piece of simple, yet wise advice for her younger sister.

“Just have fun,” she said. “States is such a great atmosphere, but you can't focus on all the hype and cameras.”

The Carmazzi duo helped CWNC place third in the team standings at WPIALs.

Other CWNC swimmers who will compete at Bucknell include Julia Kocsis, Ainsley Bissett and Emma Kunzmann. Emily Paul is an alternate in the relays.

“To watch the way the girls have progressed, honestly, it's amazing,” Barry said. “I'm really excited about what we are going to do at states.”

Preparing for his final high school competition, Knoch's Matt Karenbauer plans to relish the experience.

The senior will be swimming in the 200 IM and 100 butterfly after turning in personal-best times of 2:00.92 and 52.38, respectively, while placing third at WPIALs.

Karenbauer is no stranger to the state meet.

“The atmosphere at states is similar to that of the WPIAL meet, but the kids are a lot faster,” said Karenbauer. “I just have to treat it like another meet and swim my best.”

Karenbauer began swimming competitively for Penn Valley Athletic Club when he was nine years old. He also competed for the Butler YMCA team and is currently in his first year with Fox Chapel's club team.

“Ever since I started swimming, I've had the same coach (current Knoch coach Corrie Jones),” Karenbauer said. “I have a good relationship with her and that has helped to keep me involved all these years.

“My teammates have had an affect on me, too. They make practices and meets a lot more enjoyable.”

Karenbauer is not taking for granted the opportunity to close his scholastic career at the state championships.

“It means a lot. I feel I've put in all I can, but it's not over yet. I have to close the deal. My goal is to break two minutes in the IM and make the A final (top eight) in the butterfly.”