SAN ANTONIO — Belton New Tech High School junior Zayne Williford made school history last week after becoming the first student-athlete from Belton New Tech to medal at the UIL 4A State Swim Championship, earning not one but two podium finishes at the prestigious meet held at Josh Davis Natatorium in San Antonio on Feb. 12-13, 2026.
Williford delivered an unforgettable performance against the best 4A swimmers in Texas, placing 2nd in the 100-yard freestyle and 3rd in the 200-yard freestyle, securing his place among the state’s elite competitors and establishing a new milestone for the Belton New Tech swim program.
The historic moment marked a breakthrough not only for Williford, but also for a program still growing and building its reputation on the state level.
“This could just be the beginning.”
When asked what went through his mind when he realized he had become the first Belton New Tech swimmer to medal at State, Williford said he felt proud—but far from finished.
“I’m proud of it, but I'm not satisfied,” Williford said. “There's always work or another level to compete at. I also want to see more people up there. This could just be the beginning.”
His response reflects the same drive that helped him power through two of the most competitive sprint freestyle events in Texas high school swimming.
Staying locked in under pressure
Competing at the state level brings intense pressure, and Williford faced it head-on. In the 100 Freestyle, he surged through the water to claim second place, finishing just shy of the top spot. In the 200 Freestyle, he returned to the pool and earned third, proving his ability to perform consistently at the highest stage.
Williford explained that his mindset in the water is focused and instinctive.
“When I'm swimming there's not much thinking,” he said. “I have to put myself in the mindset that when I'm in the water I still have to be going faster.”
Physically, he credits his preparation and training for giving him the confidence to compete with the best.
“The physical aspect is simple because what you put in is what you get out,” Williford said. “The work is never going to be easy, because if it was, everyone would do it.”
Coaches praise leadership and growth
Belton New Tech swim coaches say Williford’s success has been building for years, but this season marked a turning point—not only in performance, but in leadership.
Coach Sean Barry said he saw the potential early on, but noted Williford stepped up in a major way this year.
“Zayne has always had a great deal of potential,” Barry said. “This year was different. With NT Swimming still in its infancy, lacking some direction, and in desperate need of leadership, Zayne realized it was going to be up to him to rally the troops and lead by example.”
Coach Jack Prudhome emphasized the maturity and sacrifice Williford showed leading into State.
“Zayne has gone through a great deal of growth over the last year,” Prudhome said. “He has matured as an athlete and a person. His ability to tough out hard sets, get up early when others don’t want to, give up weekends, clubs, and other activities in order to pursue his goals in the sport have really taken a step forward.”
Prudhome added that Williford’s dedication has required difficult choices and strong support.
“He’s been willing to have the hard conversations with family and friends about priorities and has an amazing and supportive family that has helped him chase his goals,” he said.
A milestone for Belton New Tech athletics
Williford’s performance is already being celebrated as a landmark moment for Belton New Tech High School. Coach Barry believes the accomplishment proves that the school’s innovative learning environment can still support elite-level athletics.
“This is a big step for the school,” Barry said. “This shows that you can go to New Tech, enjoy all the engaging things the school has to offer and still be dedicated to chasing greatness in sports.”
Barry also highlighted the importance of commitment and communication.
“When you’re honest with your coaches, teachers, family, and yourself, New Tech is an environment where you can choose to chase your dreams and have the support to catch them,” he said.
Looking ahead: still chasing No. 1
Despite the excitement of becoming a two-time state medalist, Williford’s focus is already on what comes next. His goals remain clear.
“The mindset of winning is never going to change because that's a big goal for me is to be in the number 1 spot,” Williford said.
And for younger swimmers watching his rise, he offered advice that reflects both confidence and individuality.
“I wouldn't want anyone to follow in my footsteps,” he said. “I want them to create a path that they can be proud of.”
With two medals now hanging from his neck and history already made, Zayne Williford has not only elevated Belton New Tech swimming—but has also signaled that bigger achievements may still be ahead.
As he put it himself, this milestone is only the start.
“This could just be the beginning.”