Boiling Springs' Preston Kuhn earns state diving medal in final prep season

Kuhn overcame a slow start to finish eighth in the Class 2A diving competition at the PIAA championships.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:05pm

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At the end of a prep career marked by steady improvement and self-applied pressure, Boiling Springs' Preston Kuhn earned a state diving medal with his final dive in Friday's Class 2A competition. Kuhn finished eighth with 283.05 points, breaking down in tears and embracing his coach Scott Houser after the result was announced.

Why it matters

Kuhn's achievement caps off a high school diving career that saw him progress from a relative newcomer to the sport to a state medalist. His perseverance and growth highlight the dedication required to excel at the high school level, especially in a niche sport like diving.

The details

Kuhn had a slow start to the competition, with his first five dives not meeting his personal standards. But he cut the deficit to five points with his ninth dive and then delivered a strong final effort to secure the eighth-place medal. Kuhn finished his swan song at Bucknell University with 283.05 points.

  • Kuhn missed the medal stand by 20 points and one place in 2024.
  • Kuhn qualified for the Mid-Penn Championships as a sophomore in 2023 and placed at the bottom of the pack.
  • Kuhn earned the state diving medal on Friday, March 13, 2026.

The players

Preston Kuhn

A senior diver at Boiling Springs High School who earned a state medal in his final prep season.

Scott Houser

The diving coach at Boiling Springs High School who has guided Kuhn's development over the past four years.

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What they’re saying

“I told my parents last week, 'No matter what place I get or how good I dive, if I see that medal, it's all gonna come out,'”

— Preston Kuhn

“There's no one else I would've wanted coaching me.”

— Preston Kuhn

What’s next

Kuhn will now pursue a collegiate diving career, building on the progress he made during his high school years.

The takeaway

Kuhn's journey from a relative newcomer to the sport to a state medalist showcases the power of perseverance and dedication. His story serves as an inspiration for young athletes looking to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.