Shen's Lydon set standard for future divers

Athlete of the Year: Nick Lydon, Shenendehowa

Nick Lydon's final shot at winning a state title in diving did not get off to an auspicious start. Although he was in first place more than halfway through the meet, Lydon felt he hadn't competed up to his standards.

During a break in the action, Lydon told himself to "keep going and try my best."

The four-time Section II champion rallied and crushed his last three dives to capture the elusive title, the first by a Shenendehowa diver. He capped his high school career with a front 21/2 pike that received an average score of 8.5.

Lydon was the only area athlete to win a state title this year.