For years, Johnny Macko tried nearly every sport he could.
Basketball, baseball, soccer and hockey all came and went. Swimming, however, stuck.
Now the Wellington C. Mepham High School junior is a two-time New York State champion.
Macko delivered a historic performance for the Bellmore-Merrick Sharks at the NYSPHSAA Boys Varsity Swimming and Diving Championships at Ithaca College on March 8, winning state titles in both the 200-yard freestyle and the 500-yard freestyle.
“I’ve lived in Bellmore pretty much my whole life,” Macko said. “I started swimming when I was about eight. My mom pushed me to try it, and I started swimming with my cousin and made some friends. I’ve just been swimming ever since.”
The junior captain posted personal best times in both championship races. He won the 200 freestyle in 1:39.47 and later captured the 500 freestyle in 4:28.31. Both marks met the national standard for All-American consideration, which recognizes the top high school swimmers in the country.
Even with strong times entering the meet, Macko said the victory still caught him by surprise.
“It was surreal,” he said. “I wasn’t seeded that high, and I never really thought I was going to win. When I touched the wall and saw that I won, it was amazing, because I didn’t even know I could do that.”
After claiming the 200 freestyle, Macko returned to the pool later in the meet to compete in the 500 freestyle — an event he considers his specialty as a distance swimmer.
“There was definitely a lot of pressure,” he said. “But all the Section VIII coaches were there cheering me on, and my team was supporting me. I just tried to have fun with it, and it worked out.”
Macko’s performance highlighted a strong showing for the Sharks. Junior captain Ethan Cintron also competed in two events, finishing 19th in the 200 freestyle with a personal-best 1:44.75 and 18th in the 100 backstroke with a personal-best 52.75.
The Bellmore-Merrick Sharks finished 23rd overall in the state standings.
Head coach Mike Miller said Macko’s success reflects years of steady improvement. As a freshman, Macko narrowly missed qualifying for states in the 500 freestyle.
“I remember two seasons ago when Johnny was a freshman, he barely missed the 500 free state cut,” Miller said. “To see what he has accomplished after countless hours of work and commitment to swimming is inspiring.”
Macko said friendships with teammates have played a major role in keeping him motivated through demanding practices.
“My friends have been a huge part of my swimming career,” he said. “We see each other every day, swim together and hang out after practice. They really help keep it fun.”
Standing atop the podium after his second victory was a moment he said he will never forget.
“My cheeks were hurting because I was smiling so much,” Macko said.
With another season ahead, Macko hopes to defend his titles next year while continuing his search for a college swimming program.
“Hopefully I can win states again,” he said. “And hopefully by next year I’ll be committed to a college.”
