Lone Star Splash

Lone Star Splash: From the Past

In the Lone Star State, during the era of segregation, competitive swimming and diving for both boys and girls were introduced in four black high schools. These four black high schools competed in the first district swimming meet at Central High School in Galveston, Texas, in the spring of 1955. Over a thirteen-year period, performances in every event improved significantly. In 1966, the last season prior to integration, seven teams competed for district and state honors.

Phillis Wheatley of Houston claimed the first three district championships, followed by Jack Yates, who won five consecutive championships. Booker T. Washington High School of Houston claimed the last five district championships and three state championships.

Both boys and girls competed for the city/district championships in the four competitive strokes plus fancy diving. Many individuals who competed in the high school programs earned collegiate swimming scholarships at HBCU all over America.