Emporia ? Free State High’s girls swimming team opened its season with a fifth-place finish Thursday at the Emporia Invitational.

The Firebirds scored 229 points, finishing behind winner Manhattan (500), Emporia (460), Lawrence (396) and Hutchinson (311).

Senior Lindsey Witthaus, who did not swim her junior and sophomore years, was third in the 500-yard freestyle and fourth in the 200 free. Junior Cambry McNabb was third in one-meter diving, while senior Laura Nelson was fourth.

Firebirds coach Jama Crady said she was pleased with the results, considering their low numbers at the meet.

“Lindsey did well, especially since it was her first meet back in three years,” Crady said. “And our divers were awesome.”

FSHS only had seven swimmers. Four were unable to attend because of prior commitments, two were sick and two have not finished their club swimming season.