Baker/Powder Valley Swimmers Set Personal Bests, Fall Short of State Qualification

Eleven of 12 swimmers set lifetime bests, but Bulldogs miss state meet cut in close events

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

The Baker/Powder Valley swim team had an impressive showing at the district meet, with 11 of 12 swimmers setting personal bests. However, the Bulldogs narrowly missed qualifying for the state meet in a few key events.

Why it matters

While the Bulldogs didn't advance to state, their strong performances and multiple personal bests demonstrate the team's dedication and growth. This is an encouraging sign for the future of the program, which has been working to build a competitive swim team in the region.

The details

At the district meet in La Grande, the Baker/Powder Valley boys placed 8th out of 13 teams, while the girls were 10th. Several Bulldogs swimmers had standout individual results, including Jaxson Everson placing 4th in the boys 100 backstroke final and Jarrin Bott taking 3rd in the boys 100 breaststroke final. The girls 400 freestyle relay team also finished 3rd. However, the Bulldogs fell just short of qualifying for state in a few close events.

  • The district meet was held on February 13-14, 2026.
  • The state meet is scheduled for February 20-21, 2026 in Beaverton.

The players

Junia Calhoon

The head coach of the Baker/Powder Valley swim team.

Jaxson Everson

A Baker/Powder Valley swimmer who placed 4th in the boys 100 backstroke final.

Jarrin Bott

A Baker/Powder Valley swimmer who took 3rd in the boys 100 breaststroke final.

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What they’re saying

“It was an amazing effort”

— Junia Calhoon, Head Coach (Baker City Herald)

What’s next

The Bulldogs will look to build on their strong district meet performances and try to qualify more swimmers for the state meet next season.

The takeaway

While the Baker/Powder Valley swim team fell just short of state qualification, their multiple personal bests and impressive individual results demonstrate the team's growth and potential for the future.