The swimming and diving team got back in the pool early in January, earning several victories during its winter training trip and subsequent meets over winter break. The women’s team was victorious in all three of its meets against Sacred Heart, Rider and Mount St. Mary’s, while the men’s team — who did not compete against Sacred Heart — lost to Rider and secured a victory against Mount St. Mary’s.
On the winter training trip in Plantation, Florida, the women won eight out of ten relay events against Sacred Heart, with three teams sweeping the podium in the 3×100 IM.
“I am most proud of the team for the attitude everyone kept and our ability to truly come together as a team during our time in Florida,” senior captain Kaley Snarr said. “Despite facing some of the most challenging practices of the season, everyone did an excellent job staying positive, motivating one another and finding ways to have fun.”
The success in Plantation set the stage for the Leopards’ return to College Hill for the senior meet against Rider University on Jan. 13.
In the senior meet, the women’s team continued its winning streak, securing a 184-110 victory. Junior Maggie Ivie led the team with first-place victories in the 100 and 200-yard backstroke.
“In years past, a meet this close to coming off our intense training trip in Florida usually does not produce the best times or energy, but that was not the case this year,” Snarr said. “The energy and excitement was very high, causing the seniors to feel extra celebrated and for everyone to swim really fast.”
The men’s team faced a tough challenge against Rider, resulting in a 192.5-103.5 loss. However, junior Curtis Campbell set a pool record in the 400-yard IM and junior Peter Kawash secured first place in the 1650-yard freestyle and the 500 freestyle.
On Jan. 15, the teams competed in a dual meet against Mount St. Mary’s. The men’s team claimed a 120-91 victory, with Peter Kawash breaking the pool record in the 100-yard IM.
“Rider was a tough meet after our training trip to Florida,” junior John Janeski said. “All of us were worn down, but we came back on Monday and crushed Mount St. Mary’s.”
The women’s team secured a 117-96 victory against the Mount, notching several wins. Freshman Mia Guster excelled in diving, breaking the pool record in the one-meter event.
“The Mount St. Mary’s meet was great for both teams,” Snarr said. “The atmosphere at the pool and within the team was incredibly fun.”
The Leopards will play host to NJIT on Jan. 27 at 1 p.m.
“I think we will have great performances once tapered and rested,” Janeski said. “Our team is putting the work in and preparing for the Patriot League Championship at the end of February.”
“Our hope is to break many school records, get a ton of personal bests and have fun cheering each other on and seeing our teammates succeed,” Snarr said.
