CRANBERRY TWP — Not long ago, the North Catholic boys swimming team was searching for respectability.

The program began in 2015 under the direction of former coach TJ Barry. Low numbers and inexperienced swimmers led to the Trojans taking their lumps early on.

Three years ago, North won its first section meet. Then last year, infused with talented members from the club ranks, the Trojans left an imprint on the WPIAL championship meet.

The team earned a total of seven medals, including Jackson Kress, Matt Littleton and John Lamb finishing fourth, fifth and eighth, respectively, in the 100-yard backstroke. The trio joined teammate Julian LaPietra in qualifying for the state meet.

“We didn't expect to get that many to the state meet, but this program is growing and developing at a fast rate,” said Littleton. “We still have a lot to shoot for.”

North's determined climb to become a consistent winner in the regular season and often clad with medals come the postseason meets has continued this season.

The 200 freestyle relay squad of LaPietra, Littleton, Kress and Zac Baker currently has the top time in all of WPIAL Class AA at one minute, 34.19 seconds. The other two relays are both ranked in the top four in the district.

Kress, Littleton and Lamb are each ranked in the top five in individual events.

The recent success has bred confidence that has permeated throughout the 11 swimmers on the team.

“The boys are so excited about the season and cheering for each other,” said North coach Joella Baker, who served as an assistant under Barry the last two years. “They want to win every race and are setting the bar for future teams here.

“I'm so proud of these kids,” she added. “It's an unpredictable season, but despite it all, they continue to work hard and they come together as a team at every meet to support each other. It's great to see.”

Zac Baker recently broke the school record in the 200 freestyle with a time of 1:53.84. He was a freshman on that team that earned the program's first section victory three years ago.

“It's been amazing, seeing how all of our hard work is now turning into results,” he said. “Our morale was always good, but now there's power behind it.”

Other current team members include Devin Paschall, Ben Capozzi, Logan Mlecko, Sam West, Owen Schessler and Joe Harmanos. Serving as assistant coaches are Mitch Schall and Josh Carmazzi.

The Trojans don't have their own pool. They practice three days every week in a two-lane pool at The Woodlands in Wexford. All of their meets are held on the road.

But most team members are also getting valuable time in the water through their club teams.

Following Thursday's victory over Highlands, the Trojans are 4-2 overall and 2-1 in section meets.

Even a small squad, if it includes elite swimmers, can achieve great things. In 2014, Mars' boys won WPIAL and PIAA titles with just six total members on the team.

To rise to that level, however, swimmers must first possess a belief that such accomplishments are within their reach. The Trojans aren't doubting themselves.

Said Littleton: “We're all working really hard and we believe we have a chance to win a WPIAL championship.”

North swimming has come a long way in just six seasons and the future looks even brighter. Zac Baker is the lone senior on this year's team.

“TJ built such a great model here, allowing kids to have fun while being part of a high school team,” said Joella Baker. “I'm staying true to what he started.”