This week’s Orange Panther of the Week is senior diver Stanislav “Stasz” Zitko. On Thursday, Zitko completed his Orange career with a 2nd place finish in the 3A State Diving Championships at the Pullen Aquatic Center. It was the third time in his career that Zitko medaled in the state championships. Last year, Zitko finished with a total of 412.15, which put him in consideration for All-American status. Zitko is a four-time Central Regional Diving Champion. On February 3, Zitko won is fourth regional championship with a final score of 441.20, once again earning All-American consideration. Zitko’s total in the regionals was a personal record. In his Orange career, Zitko had two bronze medals in the 3A State Championships, along with a silver medal. Zitko got his start by diving into pools across Hillsborough as an adolescent, which earned him some admonishment from lifeguards. Now, he leaves Orange as the most accomplished male diver in school history. Zitko hopes to walk on with a college diving team after he graduates from Orange in June.

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