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Teen Upholds Family Epiphany Dive Tradition

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By SHERRI ACKERMAN

sackerman@tampatrib.com

Published: January 7, 2009

Sixty-five Greek Orthodox boys kneeled at the feet of Archbishop Demetrios on the steps of Spring Bayou in Tarpon Springs and tried to focus on the spirit of Epiphany Day.

The celebration Tuesday marked the baptism of Jesus Christ and the beginning of Christianity. It also includes a rite of passage for Greek boys ages 16 to 18, who dive into the bayou for a cross coveted for its yearlong promise of blessings to the finder.

Sixteen-year-old Speros Theofilos was among the throng who barely heard the last prayer before sprinting to the waist-deep brown water. His cousin reached the cross first last year.

"Stay calm," he'd advised Speros.

The boys had to swim to one of 11 small boats moored in the bayou, pull themselves inside and wait for the cross toss. Speros' boat was one of at least two that sank as young men piled in.

As the cross slipped beneath the surface, the teens plunged into the water and raced toward the dock.

The event brought back sweet memories for Gus Tsambis, whose 17-year-old son George participated for the first time. "I'm proud to have him do this," said the older Tsambis, who dove 40 years ago. "He's living up to the tradition."

No Tsambis has managed to grab the cross - yet. There's always next year.

That's what Speros tried to keep in mind as Pantelis "Pete" Kontodiakos, a 17-year-old Countryside High senior, nabbed this year's cross.

Next year, Speros, who attends Berkeley Prep in Tampa, will aim for a closer boat. And keep the faith.

Just getting the opportunity to dive is an honor, said Michael Kouskoutis, co-chairman of the divers, who reminds them, "that is the blessing."

Reporter Sherri Ackerman can be reached at (813) 259-7144.

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