The final lap had been run, the final length had been swum and the final buzzer had sounded.

But the gym was still full.

A tremendous outpouring of pride rang through Schoenecker Arena Thursday as St. Thomas celebrated the success of the school’s winter season squads.

“Success is often contagious, and the bar is set really high here,” said men’s basketball coach John Tauer. “So to be a part of an event today honoring the swimmers, the runners and the basketball team is very special.” Tauer’s No. 8-ranked Tommies secured the national championship this March.

The St. Thomas community applauded with admiration as the national champions came to center court. President Julie Sullivan greeted the crowd before introducing the coaches. Videos highlighted nationals, and the coaches acknowledged the outstanding accomplishments of their athletes.

The St. Thomas women’s track and field team took home the national championship for the distance medley relay with senior Emily Gapinski winning the mile. Track and field coach Joe Sweeney said it takes true dedication and sacrifices, unmatched by any other team, to take home the championship title.

“Our athletes want to break through and be champions,” Sweeney said. “I think that’s really special, and that’s something that they will always remember.”

Athletes train tirelessly for one common goal: success. Sullivan said these achievements are a reflection of St. Thomas’ commitment to excellence.

“Our athletic programs are truly extraordinary,” Sullivan said. “Our coaches don’t just develop great athletes. They develop great people.”

Coaches make it a priority to support their athletes in both the gym and classroom, and through these programs they teach lessons that will serve them the players the rest of their lives, according to swimming and diving coach Scott Blanchard.

“In order for them to come in here and make all sacrifices that go along with being the best in the country, they need to know that they are going to be completely supported by me,” Blanchard said.

Junior swimmer Emma Paulson won three individual national championships and was honored as the Most Outstanding Women’s Swimmer. She was the first swimmer to win a national championship for St. Thomas.

“Knowing that they have this ‘family’ motto and theme running through the swim team here … It made me want to come and be a part of it,” Paulson said.

Gapinski said she was proud of the team’s reputation and everyone involved in the competition.

“I really loved how the team had such a winning history, and the coaches and athletes were so dedicated to the program,” Gapinski said. “Everyone is so dedicated to the sport that they are participating in.”

Even the parents of athletes showed up at the celebration to cheer on their students. Jeanna Montero, the mother of Taylor Montero and part of what the basketball team calls “The Tommie Mommies,” said she has noticed the bond between teammates.

“With Division III, you see lifelong friendships forming,” Jeanna Montero said. “It’s a family.”

The ceremony ended with the unveiling of the basketball National Championship banner and a standing ovation for all the athletes. Attendees indulged in the taste of victory, with cake served after the celebration.

Carolyn Meyer can be reached at cameyer@stthomas.edu.