Susan Joy Copeland

Swim and Tennis - Class of 1976

"Susan was the first of many gifted swimmers to win championships at Shawnee Mission South. The legacy of Susan's impact on the Shawnee Mission South swim and dive teams cannot be overstated. Susan was a State finalist in all of her three years of high school. As a senior, she was both Sunflower League Champion and State Champion in the 100-breaststroke, and was the state record holder in the event. Coach Bruce Bove said of Susan, "One of the finest young ladies I've ever worked with. She was a born leader. She was the heart and soul of the team." Her records at Shawnee Mission South stood for over 25 years. As a senior, she was team captain, was selected All-Sun Country, All-State, and was in consideration for All-American honors. The swim team she captained won the State Championship her senior year. In addition to her exceptional talent in swimming, Susan also had a talent for tennis. She was a three-year state participant in tennis and was captain of the team her senior year. She took second place in the state tournament that year, but the team won the State Championship, making her the only person to be captain of two State Championship teams in the same year at Shawnee Mission South. These championships are the ultimate testament to her leadership. As a lasting legacy to her greatness at Shawnee Mission South, the swim team annually selects the most outstanding swimmer or diver to accept the Susan Copeland Award. An award granted by teammates, the Susan Copeland Award epitomized the lasting impact she had on the swim and dive team, and on the entire school. Though Susan's life was tragically cut short, her memory and greatness will be remembered forever. The Raider Athletic Hall of Fame humbly welcomes Susan Copeland to its ranks."