By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

Courtesy: ACC

GREENSBORO, N.C. (theACC.com) – NC State’s Coleman Stewart has been named ACC Men’s Swimmer of the Week, and North Carolina’s Fabian Stepinski has been tabbed Diver of the Week. Notre Dame’s Coleen Gillilan has been selected as the Women’s Swimmer of the Week, and teammate Erin Isola has been named Diver of the Week.

A senior from York, Pennsylvania, Stewart was key the win over No. 17 Virginia. The Wolfpack swimmer won each event he competed, taking first in the 100 back, 200 back, 200 medley relay and 400 free relay. The honor is the second this season for Stewart.

Stepinski shined on the boards against Virginia. The freshman from Zurich, Switzerland, swept the springboard events, scoring a 377.70 in the 1-meter competition and a 339.23 in the 3-meter event.

Swimming against No. 7 Ohio State, Akron and Iowa, Gillilan helped Notre Dame to a first-place finish at the Shamrock Invitational. A freshman from Fort Collins, Colorado, the Fighting Irish swimmer won eight of the nine events she competed. Gillilan was also part of the second-place 800 free relay team and earned her third ACC Swimmer of the Week nod.

Isola had a strong showing on the boards for Notre Dame at the Shamrock Invitational. Hailing from Allegan, Michigan, the senior diver won the 3-meter competition with a score of 301.95 and placed third in the 1-meter event with a score of 294.05.

ACC Men’s Swimmer of the Week
Oct. 1 – Blaise Vera, Jr., Pitt
Oct. 8 – Zach Yeadon, Jr., Notre Dame
Oct. 15 – Vladimir Stefanik, Sr., Florida State
Oct. 22 – Blaise Vera, Jr., Pitt
Oct. 29 – Coleman Stewart, Sr., NC State
Nov. 5 – Blake Manoff, So., Virginia Tech
Nov. 12 – Miles Williams, Sr., Duke
Nov. 26 – Zach Yeadon, Jr., Notre Dame
Jan. 7 – Blaise Vera, Jr., Pitt
Jan. 14 – Nicolas Albiero, Jr., Louisville
Jan. 21 – Blake Manoff, So., Virginia Tech
Jan. 28 – Coleman Stewart, Sr., NC State

ACC Men’s Diver of the Week
Oct. 8 – Austin Flaute, So., Notre Dame
Oct. 15 – Joshua Davidson, Jr., Florida State
Oct. 22 – Joshua Davidson, Jr., Florida State
Oct. 29 – Noah Zawadzki, So., Virginia Tech
Nov. 5 – Daniel Pinto, Jr., Louisville
Nov. 12 – Nathaniel Hernandez, Sr., Duke
Nov. 26 – Nathaniel Hernandez, Sr., Duke
Jan. 7 – Walker Creedon, So., Virginia
Jan. 14 – Daniel Pinto, Jr., Louisville
Jan. 21 – Noah Zawadzki, So., Virginia Tech
Jan. 28 – Fabian Stepinski, Fr., North Carolina

ACC Women’s Swimmer of the Week
Oct. 1 – Zorry Mason, So., Miami
Oct. 8 – Kate Douglass, Fr., Virginia
Oct. 15 – Grace Oglesby, Sr., Louisville
Oct. 22 – Aryanna Fernandes, So., Florida State
Oct. 29 – Coleen Gillilan, Fr., Notre Dame
Nov. 5 – Abbie Dolan, Sr., Notre Dame
Nov. 12 – Alyssa Marsh, Sr., Duke
Nov. 26 – Kate Douglass, Fr., Virginia
Jan. 7 – Kate Douglass, Fr., Virginia
Jan. 14 – Coleen Gillilan, Fr., Notre Dame
Jan. 21 – Makayla Sargent, Sr., NC State
Jan. 28 – Coleen Gillilan, Fr., Notre Dame

ACC Women’s Diver of the Week
Oct. 1 – Mia Vallée, Fr., Miami
Oct. 8 – Kelly Straub, Jr., Notre Dame
Oct. 15 – Ayla Bonniwell, Sr., Florida State
Oct. 22 – Molly Carlson, Sr., Florida State
Oct. 29 – Molly Fears, Sr., Louisville
Nov. 5 – Michaela Sliney, Sr., Louisville
Nov. 12 – Ayla Bonniwell, Sr., Florida State
Nov. 26 – Molly Fears, Sr., Louisville
Jan. 7 – Sydney Dusel, Sr., Virginia
Jan. 14 – Molly Fears, Sr., Louisville
Jan. 21 – Kelly Straub, Jr., Notre Dame
Jan. 28 – Erin Isola, Sr., Notre Dame

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Stewart, Gillilan Named ACC Men’s & Women’s Swimmer Of The Week

By Jared Anderson on SwimSwam

This week, athletes across the world of sport are mourning Kobe Bryant, one of the best professional basketball players in history and an iconic sports figure for his legendary dedication to his craft and his self-styled “Mamba Mentality” in key moments. Bryant died this week in a helicopter crash, prompting an outpouring of tributes and respect from athletes in every sport imaginable.

Bryant’s athletic mentality can easily be applied to the sport of swimming. Here are our favorite quotes from Bryant:

Making Sacrifices For Greatness

“There’s a choice we have to make as people, as individuals, if you want to be great at something. You have to make the inherent sacrifices that come along with that. Family time, hanging out with your friends… We all can be masters at our craft. But you have to make sacrifices that come along with making that decision.”

• From a 2015 CBS Sports documentary titled “Kobe Bryant’s Muse”

Dealing With Setbacks, Injuries, Defeats

“Be sad. Be mad. Be frustrated. Scream. Cry. Sulk. When you wake up you will think it was just a nightmare only to realize it’s all too real. You will be angry and wish for the day back, the game back THAT play back. But reality gives nothing back and nor should you.”

• From a 2017 Instagram post encouraging Gordon Hayward after a gruesome leg injury

Being a Leader

“To be an effective leader, you have to be a really good listener and not to what’s being said, but to what’s not being said, you know. You have to be really observant. That was a big transition for me. I went from being a scorer… to being a leader. And that meant putting others first. That means not worrying about are you in rhythm, are you playing well in this game, are you ready to go, to being, are they ready? What can I do to help them be ready?”

• From a 2018 pep talk with Alabama’s football program

Never Being Intimidated

“My mind doesn’t work that way. It’s something that’s never even entered my thought process. The last time I was intimidated was when I was 6 years old in karate class. I was an orange belt and the instructor ordered me to fight a black belt who was a couple years older and a lot bigger. I was scared s—less. I mean, I was terrified and he kicked my ass. But then I realized he didn’t kick my ass as bad as I thought he was going to and that there was nothing really to be afraid of. That was around the time I realized that intimidation didn’t really exist if you’re in the right frame of mind.”

• From a 2013 ESPN interview

Avoiding the Fear of Failure or Criticism

You’ve got to step up and play, man. You can’t worry about criticism. You can’t worry about failure. You really can’t worry about that stuff. You’ve got to go out and figure that out and play and do the best you can, and whatever happens, happens. You can’t be held captive by the fear of failure or the fear of what people may say.”

• From a 2014 ESPN story

Dealing With Self-Doubt

“I have self-doubt. I have insecurity. I have fear of failure. I have nights when I show up at the arena and I’m like, ‘My back hurts, my feet hurt, my knees hurt. I don’t have it. I just want to chill.’ We all have self-doubt. You don’t deny it, but you also don’t capitulate to it. You embrace it.”

• Per, INC.com

Reflecting, but only as a way to move forward

“I’m reflective only in the sense that I learn to move forward. I reflect with a purpose.”

• Per GoalCast.com

Read the full story on SwimSwam: 7 Kobe Bryant Quotes To Inspire Your Swimming Career

By Zoe Gregorace on SwimSwam

Toast. Possibly the most simple food albeit, most versatile. Sure it’s great just slathered with butter but there are so many delicious toast combinations that will leave your mouth watering and appetite completely satisfied. Whether you are looking for a quick breakfast or mid afternoon pick me up, these recipes are nutritious, delicious and so easy to make, you can even whip it up in your dorm room (although, I do not recommend substituting an iron for a toaster, don’t be that guy). Without further ado, here are my favorite ways to eat toast!

Avo-Shroom Toast

Ingredients 

• 2 pieces of bread (I love Ezekiel bread from Food For Life Baking Co)
• ½ ripe avocado
• Handful of baby mushrooms 
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• Sprinkle of smoked paprika

An interesting twist on avocado toast. Besides the usual topping of a runny egg, sauteed mushrooms really add a unique texture as well as a serving of vegetables. Score! With the crispy crunch of the toast and soft mushrooms, this toast really hits the spot. One thing that I love about it is the smoked paprika. Since you may not have some of this stuff lying around in your spice cabinet, I highly recommend picking it up at the store! Smoked paprika adds such a savory flavor to any dish and can certainly play a huge role in jazzing up your toast game!

Avo-Berry Toast

Ingredients 

• 2 pieces of bread (I love Ezekiel bread from Food For Life Baking Co)
• ½ ripe avocado
• Handful of blueberries & raspberries
• Drizzle of honey

Again, not a typical combination but, sometimes you discover incredible things once you get a little out of your comfort zone. Avocado toast tends to be a savory-ish dish but since avocado itself has a quite mild flavor, it can really work in a sweet combo!  Preparation is simple- toast your bread, scoop out the avocado onto the toast and mash it out with a fork as you would normally make avo-toast. Then toss on some fresh berries and drizzle with honey. This combo is super refreshing and makes a great afternoon snack!

Pb-Pumpkin Spice Protein Toast w/ banana

Ingredients 

• 2 pieces of bread (I love Ezekiel bread from Food For Life Baking Co)
• 3 spoonfuls of plain, greek yogurt (I use Fage) 
• 1 spoonful of canned pumpkin
• 1 tbsp creamy peanut butter
• Sprinkle of cinnamon
• Sprinkle of chia seeds 
• Sliced banana

Yogurt on bread? What? Don’t dismiss this combo! I promise you, it’s a game changer. To make the spread, first add the yogurt, pumpkin and peanut butter to a bowl. It might take some muscle power but combine until the peanut butter is fully incorporated into the other ingredients. Once your toast is toasted, spread the mixture on, sprinkle with chia seeds and cinnamon and finish off with some banana slices. Once again, this toast is great for an afternoon snack or breakfast on the go if you are in a hurry!

ABC Toast

(Almond Butter-Cinnamon Apple)

Ingredients 

• 2 pieces of bread (I love Ezekiel bread from Food For Life Baking Co)
• Chopped up apple
• Sprinkle of cinnamon
• 2 tbsp almond butter

Such a classic combination! Maybe it’s strange or maybe you love this combo just as much as I do but if you’ve never tried it, the time is now people! While your bread is toasting, add the chopped apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon to a bowl. Mix with your hands to ensure that the apple pieces are decently covered in cinnamon and microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds.This will warm up the apples without the fuss of sauteeing them in a saucepan. After your toast is toasted, spread on the almond butter, or whatever your favorite nut butter is and top with the warm apples. Enjoy! 

Check out my page for more recipe inspiration and be sure to share your jazzed up toast with me @whatzoeeeats.

About Zoe Gregorace

Zoe Gregorace is currently studying Nutrition Policy at the Tufts Friedman School of Nutrition Science and recently graduated from Tufts University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology and was a proud member of the Tufts Swimming and Diving team (Go Jumbos!). During her 16 year career as a competitive swimmer, she developed a passion for sports nutrition. She enjoys writing on the topic of nutrition, health and wellness and posts her meal creations on her Instagram page @whatzoeeeats. As a former college swimmer, she strives to share recipes and nutrition tips to promote balanced eating and optimize sports performance.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: The Hungry Swimmer: Jazz Up Your Toast

By Retta Race on SwimSwam

Get your news fix on happenings outside the pool with the latest ‘Beyond the Lane Lines.’  With each edition, we collect personal stories, little known facts and general items of interest from around the world. Read on and learn something new this week.

#1 Invictus Games 2022 Coming to Düsseldorf, Germany

Announced on Wednesday, January 15th, the city of Düsseldorf, Germany will host the 2022 edition of the Invictus Games, the international adaptive multi-sport event in which wounded, injured or sick armed services personnel compete across 9 sports.

Invictus Games Foundation Patron, the former Prince Harry, said  “I am honoured that Germany will take the Invictus Story further, with the sixth Invictus Games heading to Düsseldorf in 2022. Germany has been a key part of the Invictus Games family since the very start in 2014 and I know that they will be exemplary hosts in picking up the mantle and showcasing what sport continues to do for these inspirational men and women in their recovery. I hope everyone in Germany is ready for what will be an incredible week of sport! I have no doubt that the German public will get right behind these Games and that every single competitor can expect a warm welcome and an amazing atmosphere.

And as we look ahead to the upcoming Invictus Games The Hague 2020, I’m delighted that two new nations, Belgium and the Republic of Korea, will be taking part for the first time, bringing the number of nations in the Invictus Family to 20 in 2020.”

The Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2022 will bring together over 500 competitors from 20 nations to compete in a series of adaptive sports.

Thomas Geisel, Mayor of Düsseldorf, said “Düsseldorf is proud to be chosen to host the Invictus Games 2022. The German application with D.Live and the sports city of Düsseldorf was excellent. The state capital is looking forward to competitors from all over the world, and with its enthusiastic audience and expertise in organising major sporting events, will make the Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2022 in the Arena Sportspark an outstanding event – with lots of heart and emotion.”

#2 Olympic Champion Nancy Hogshead-Makar Honored

Multi-Olympic medalist at the 1984 Games, Nancy Hogshead-Makar is set to be honored by Albany Law School in Albany, New York this upcoming March. She will serve as the keynote speaker on Kate Stoneman Day, the school’s annual celebration of women in law.

Since retiring from competitive swimming, Hogshead-Makar has been an active civil rights lawyer. She also founded and is CEO Of Champion Women, a nonprofit providing leag advocacy for girls and women in sports. She is also a member of the United States Olympic Committee’s (USOC) Committee to Restore Integrity.

#3 UK Coaching’s Performance Foundation Record-Making Selections

A record number of 7 Swim England coaches have been selected for UK Coaching’s Performance Foundation Coach Support Program. A total of 47 coaches from 17 sports will take part in the UK Coaching program.

Chris Littler (City of Birmingham), Greg King-Limb (Mount Kelly), Kevin Schofield (City of Leeds), Lewis Dunford (Guildford City), Matthew Smithurst (Loughborough University), Rachel Aldington (Millfield School) and Roberto Pavoni (Plymouth Leander) were all successful in their applications, receiving one-to-one support over the next 18 months.

Lindsay Trimmings, Swim England’s Coaching Development Manager, said: “Each of the successful coaches have had extensive prior involvement in Swim England pathway activities and have shown themselves to be fully committed to their aspirations of becoming high performance coaches in the future.

“I am personally looking forward to supporting them along this journey in partnership with UK Coaching.”

#4 Mireia Belmonte Completed Half Marathon

Spanish Olympic gold medalist Mireia Belmonte raced the 25th EDP Half Marathon in Seville this past Sunday, January 25th. The race represented the first leg of the Banana de Canarias National Running Circuit and in which nearly 11,000 runners will participate.

Per Triatlon Noticias, the 200m fly champion from Rio finished the 13.1 miles in an impressive time of 1:39.21.

“It was my first half marathon and I didn’t know how it was going to come out,” said 29-year-old Belmonte. “For me, it is fortunate to be able to count on the support of the Banana de Canarias, which is part of my daily running routine, both to face my half marathon today and for my preparation for Tokyo 2020.”

#5 Speaking of Belmonte…..

The Spaniard recently made her opinion on choice of 2020 Olympic Games flag bearer for her nation known, advising that the bear ‘should at least be a woman.’

Her reasoning, per Mundo Deportivo, is that a woman’s being selected ‘would be a recognition of all women’s sports and all the successes achieved in recent years.’ She cited how there have only been 2 women in Spanish history to carry the country’s flag at a Summer Olympic Games since 1920, although there have been 6 women flag bearers for the Winter Olympic Games.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Beyond The Lane Lines: A Double Dose Of Mireia Belmonte

By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

Courtesy: SEC

Men’s Swimmer of the Week: Kieran Smith, Florida

Florida’s Kieran Smith, a sophomore from Ridgefield, Conn., won three individual events and was on a winning relay team to Florida’s win over Auburn. Smith registered NCAA B-cut times in the 100 free (43.50) and the 400 IM (3:47.25) and touched the wall first in the 100 back (47.96). He swam the fastest spilt in the first-place 400 free relay (2:56.85/43.57).

Men’s Diver of the Week: Danny Zhang, Kentucky

Kentucky’s Danny Zhang, a sophomore from Cypress, Calif., swept the springboard events at No. 10 Louisville. Zhang recorded a final score of 346.43 on the 1-meter, and a final score of 383.55 on the 3-meter. In exhibition competition, he scored a 338.48 on platform.

Men’s Freshman of the Week: Ian Grum, Georgia

Georgia’s Ian Grum, a freshman from Atlanta, Ga., led all freshmen with 13 points in Georgia’s win over No. 12 Tennessee. Grum took first in the 200 back with a time of 1:44.70, his best dual time of the season. He also placed second in the 100 back (48.56). He swam the second leg of the second-place 400 free relay (3:00.10/45.12) and the first leg of the 200 medley relay that finished fourth (1:31.05/23.01).

Women’s Swimmer of the Week: Sherridon Dressel, Florida

Florida’s Sherridon Dressel, a senior from Green Cove Springs, Fla., won three individual events and led off the fastest 200 medley relay in Florida’s win over No. 14 Auburn. Dressel posted NCAA B-cuts in her wins in the 100 fly (52.81), 100 back (52.13) and the 200 back (1:53.38). She posted a split of 24.27 to lead off the relay team that combined for the top time of 1:38.73.

Women’s Diver of the Week: Brooke Madden, Florida

Florida’s Brooke Madden, a senior from Centerville, Ind., swept both diving events to help Florida post a 161-137 win over No. 14 Auburn. In her first appearance this year in a dual meet, Madden scored 313.65 on the 1-meter and 337.35 on the 3-meter.

Women’s Freshman of the Week: Caitlin Brooks, Kentucky

Kentucky’s Caitlin Brooks, a freshman from Gainesville, Fla., posted two NCAA B-cut times in UK’s win at No. 19 Louisville. Brooks tallied individual wins in the 100 back (53.91) and 200 back (1:56.64). She was also a member of the winning 200 medley relay (1:39.70/24.89) and placed fifth in the 100 fly (55.85).

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Kieran Smith, Sherridon Dressel Headline SEC Weekly Awards

By Braden Keith on SwimSwam

Fitter and Faster Swim Camps is the proud sponsor of SwimSwam’s College Recruiting Channel and all commitment news. For many, swimming in college is a lifelong dream that is pursued with dedication and determination. Fitter and Faster is proud to honor these athletes and those who supported them on their journey.

Florida High School State Champion and USA Swimming Junior National Champion Mason Laur has verbally committed to the University of Florida. A current junior with Barron Collier High School and T2 Aquatics in Naples, Florida, Laur will join the Gators’ varsity squad in the fall of 2021.

I am extremely excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my swimming and academic career at the University of Florida! I’d like to thank my family, friends, and coaches for all of their support! GO GATORS!

Laur was the Florida High School State Champion in the 200 IM in November in Class 3A – the classification for the state’s 2nd-biggest high schools.

Sample Progressions:

Laur’s progressions have catapulted him onto the radar of a school like Florida. At the 2018 high school state meet, when he was a sophomore, he clocked a 1:52.0 in the 200 IM. A year later, at the 2019 meet, he was almost four seconds faster than that. At Junior Nationals over the summer, he dropped over 5 seconds in the 200 fly to land at 1:59.25 and win the USA Swimming Junior National title. That after entering the meet as just the 31st seed in the event.

That swim earned Laur his first Olympic Trials cut and ranks as the 13th-best 200 meter fly by a 15-16 year old in USA Swimming history.

Best Times in Yards

• 50 free – 21.51
• 100 free – 46.28
• 200 free – 1:43.40
• 500 free – 4:35.37
• 100 back – 52.97
• 200 back – 1:47.45
• 100 breast – 59.83
• 200 breast – 2:13.11
• 100 fly – 49.41
• 200 fly – 1:47.40
• 200 IM – 1:48.17
• 400 IM – 3:54.48

Laur’s best time in the 200 IM is about a second-and-a-half from scoring range in the SEC already, and his best time in the 200 fly is only about half-a-second away. Barring Kieran Smith, the defending SEC Champion in the 200 IM, neither event is a particular depth for Florida’s men at the moment. The Gators had 2 A-finalists in the 200 fly at last year’s SEC Championships, for example, that were their only scorers – and both swimmers (Maxime Rooney and Erge Gezmis) have transferred. Smith is one of only 2 returning scorers in the 200 IM for Florida – current senior Grant Sanders was 8th at last year’s SEC Championship meet.

If you have a commitment to report, please send an email with a photo (landscape, or horizontal, looks best) and a quote to Recruits@swimswam.com.

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Read the full story on SwimSwam: Junior National Champion Mason Laur Verbally Commits to Florida (2021)

By Coleman Hodges on SwimSwam

FORM is swim goggles with a smart display. FORM is a sports technology company with a simple mission: to break down the barriers between what swimming is and what it could be.

Following the Pro Swim Series stop in Knoxville, we STAYED in Knoxville and filmed with the University of Tennessee. Specifically, we got to go to the weight room with the Vols and see what their weight philosophy, titled “savage training”, is all about.

Right off the bat, they had some really fun plyometric warm-ups, including assisted jumps, where they got BIG air. They also had numerous tools that would measure their effort or give them a score on their technique and ways to improve it.

On to the turf area, where they had a sled push into a resisted sprint, or “walking the dog”. They finished things off with some group synchro abs, where everyone got to call an exercise.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Practice + Pancakes: Tennessee Women Display “Savage Training” in Weight Room

By Robert Gibbs on SwimSwam

Louisville vs. Kentucky

• Saturday, January 25, 2020
• Louisville, KY
• SCY
• Full Results

TEAM SCORES

WOMEN

1. Kentucky 160
2. Louisville 139.5

MEN

1. Louisville 165
2. Kentucky 135

In-state rivals Kentucky and Louisville met on Saturday for dual meet action. The teams saw a split result. The Kentucky women picked up a win on the women’s side. On the men’s side, however, Louisville prevailed at home.

Men’s Recap

(reported by Lauren Neidigh)

The Louisville men got off to a strong start, going 1-2 in the 200 medley relay. The A team won it in 1:26.91. Freshan Ilia Sibirtsev, a World Juniors medalist, gave them 2 wins in a row as he touched in 9:07.56 in the 1000 free. That was his first time breaking 9:20 this season.

Kentucky bounced back in the next event, however, going 1-2 in the 200 free. Glen Brown and Jason Head led the way. They were tied at the 150, but Brown closed a nail faster in 1:37.54 to Head’s 1:37.65.

Louisville then went on a 3-win streak.Mitchell Whyte dominated the 100 back in 47.70 as the only man to break 49. Teammate Evgenii Somov then took the 100 breast, nearly a second ahead of the field in 54.23. Domov would go on to sweep the breaststrokes.

ACC Champion Nick Albiero gave the Cardinals their 3rd win in a row, winning his signature 200 fly by over a body length in 1:44.00. That took nearly 2 seconds off his former Pool Record (1:45.81).

The event win streak ended at 3 in a row for Louisville as Kentucky’s Peter Wetzlar won the 50 free in 20.06. After a quick break, Wetzlar returned to complete his sprint sweep. He was stroke-for-stroke with Louisville’s Andrej Barna as they flipped just 2 hundredths apart going into the final lap. Wetzlar got his hand to the wall in 43.79 to Barna’s 43.86.

Louisville picked up the next couple of wins with Daniel Sos dominating the 200 back in 1:45.89. Somov then won the 200 breast. He led from start to finish in 2:00.59.

Kentucky’s Hank Siefert took the next one in a close 500 free battle with Sibirtsev. They traded the lead up front, with Siefert going out slightly faster on the first 200 but Sibirtsev taking over through the 400. Siefert kicked it into gear with 100 to go, outsplitting Sibirtsev by over half a second on the penultimate 50. Sibirtsev made a run for him on the last 50, but Siefert held him off to win 4:26.69 to 4:26.93.

Albiero came back to finish off the butterfly sweep in the 100 fly, touching in 47.47. Sos also picked up a winning double as he closed out the individual races with a dominant 1:46.55 in the 200 IM.

The Cardinals had cemented their victory, but Kentucky had the final win as they took the 400 free relay in 2:55.21. Wetzlar got the Wildcats a lead with his 43.87 to Albiero’s 44.33 on the 1st leg. They led by over 2 seconds going into the final leg. Barna took on the anchor leg for Louisville. He closed the gap significantly with his 42.91 split, but Kentucky was too far ahead to be caught.

Women’s Recap

(reported by Robert Gibbs)

Kentucky got the day rolling with a win in the 200 medley relay. A 24.89 leadoff by Caitlin Brooks put the Wildcats in the lead over Louisville’s A relay by over two seconds. The Cardinals closed, but ultimately Kentucky won in 1:39.70, with Louisville’s relays taking 2nd and 3rd. The freshman Brooks was one of the Wildcats’ stars of the day, as she also led a Kentucky sweep of the top three spots in the 100 back with a 53.91, then completed the backstroke sweep with a 1:56.64 in the 200 back.

Ali Galyer also earned two wins for Kentucky, first taking the 200 free in 1:47.39 and then winning the 500 with a 4:50.63. Kentucky swept the distance free events, thanks to a 9:53.94 victory by freshman Beth McNeese in the 1000 free.

Asia Seidt was the third Wildcat to pull in two wins, taking the 200 fly in 1:58.39, just ahead of teammate Izzy Gati (1:58.50), and also tying for the win in the 100 fly with a 54.52.

The Cardinals didn’t get on the board until a few events in, when Mariia Astashkina ended the Wildcats’ opening winning streak with a 1:01.39 in the 100 breast in 1:01.39. Lainey Visscher‘s 22.94 in the 50 free represented the only other Louisville victory before the first break. The Cardinals came out stronger on the back half, as Arina Openysheva took the 100 free in 50.21 in the first event after the break. Louisville would add victories from Morgan Friesen in the 200 breast (2:13.30), Christiana Regenauer in the 100 fly (tied with Seidt at 54.52), and Diana Dunn in the 200 IM (2:03.76).

While the Wildcats’ lead proved insurmountable, the Cardinals ended the day on a high note, as they got a big anchor leg from Casey Fanz to win the 400 free relay in 3:20.32.

PRESS RELEASE – LOUISVILLE

The No. 10/19 University of Louisville men’s and women’s swimming and diving team split with rival Kentucky Saturday afternoon at the Ralph Wright Natatorium.  The Louisville men won 165-135 and the Kentucky women won 160-139.5.

“First of all, how often do we have a packed house?” said Arthur Albiero, UofL head coach. “That’s a celebration of college swimming. That’s the way I see it. I guess I’m getting old. Those are the things that catch my attention these days. I’m proud of the way we fought, both men and women really. The men took charge early and never really let up. This is a special group of guys and they’ve come together in many ways. They are a good blend of youth and experience. It makes things exciting for what’s to come.”

UofL won 15 individual events and two of four relays and six NCAA B-cuts on the day. The Cardinals were led by multiple winners Evgenii Somov (200 MR, 100 breast, 200 breast), Nicolas Albiero (200 MR, 200 fly, 100 fly) and Daniel Sos (200 back, 200 IM) for the men.  Arina Openysheva (100 free, 400 FR), Christiana Regenauer (100 fly, 400 FR), and Lainey Visscher (50 free, 400 FR).

It’s hard for me to overlook Nicolas Albiero today,” said the elder Albiero. “The way he swam today with a 44 flat in the 200 fly. Very, very competitive. The way he executed really stood out to me more than the time. There are a few things that we are working on. He really put that together. To be able to come back and just have a great meet today. It’s hard to not overlook that. There are plenty of guys who did a great job today. Daniel Sos, Evgenii Somov in the backstroke. Mitchell Whyte. A lot of people had to step up. Ilia Sibirtsev, a freshman finally starting to figure things out. That’s fun, right, when you start to see that moment. The light bulb starts to come together for some of these guys.”

In the first event of the meet, the Cardinal women touched second and third in the 200 medley relay.  Ashlyn Schoof (27.13), Mariia Astashkina (27.25), Nastja Govejsek (24.06) and Casey Fanz (22.39)  combined forces to post a time of 1:40.83. The foursome of Kyla Alexander (26.32), Kaylee Wheeler (28.44), Christiana Regenauer (23.52), and Lainey Visscher (22.71) went 1:40.99. Kentucky won the event with a time of 1:39.70.

In the men’s 200 medley relay, the Cardinal men took the top two spots with the A-relay team of Mitchell Whyte (22.13), Evgenii Somov (24.35), Nicolas Albiero (20.78)  and Andrej Barna (19.65) posted the winning time of 1:26.91 for the Cards. Their teammates Nikos Sofianidis (22.77), Sasha Palazzo (24.40), Haridi Sameh (21.16) and Mihalis Deliyiannis (19.69) were in hot pursuit, touching second in 1:28.03.

“I like the way the group fought and battled through the relays, said Albiero. “Ultimately for us at this stage of the season, that’s what I always talk about with the team. Yes we are focused on today’s meet but there are other things coming. It’s all a part of the progression for us.”

In the 1000 freestyle, Kentucky took the top two spots led by Beth McNeese‘s 9.53.94.  Maria Sumida was the top Cardinal, touching third in 10:09.92, Sophie Cattermole was fourth in 10:11.68.  In the men’s race, Cardinal Ilia Sibirtsev beat the field by almost five seconds, posting the winning time of 9:07.56.  Cardinal T.C. Smith was fourth, going 9:18.76, just ahead of Hayden Curley’s 9:20.23.

In the women’s 200 freestyle, UK’s Ali Galyer took top honors with the winning time of 1:47.39. Arina Openysheva was the top Cardinal with the third-place time of 1:48.65. Diana Dunn was fifth in 1:49.93 and Katie Schorr was sixth with a time of 1:52.81.  In the men’s race, Wildcat Glen Brown was first, posting a 1:37.54.  Colton Paulson was the top UofL swimmer with a third place time of 1:38.12 just ahead of Andrej Barna’s 1:38.20. Sam Steele was fifth with 1:38.47, just edging teammate Michael Eastman’s 1:39.90.

In the women’s 100 backstroke, Kentucky’s Caitlin Brooks touched first in 53.91.  Sofie Underdahl was fourth for the Cardinals, boarding a 56.70 just out-touching teammate Kyla Alexander’s 56.77 and Ashlyn Schoof’s 56.86.  The Cardinal men went 1-3-4 in their race led by Mitchell Whyte’s NCAA B-Cut time 47.70. Nikos Sofianidis

By Jack McCormick on SwimSwam

Fitter and Faster Swim Clinics is the proud sponsor of SwimSwam’s College Recruiting Channel and all commitment news. For many, swimming in college is a lifelong dream that is pursued with dedication and determination. Fitter and Faster is proud to honor these athletes and those who supported them on their journey.

Miranda Kirtley of Daleville, Virginia has announced her verbal commitment to West Virginia University beginning in the fall of 2021. She attends Lord Botetourt High School and swims for Carter Center Aquatics.

A freestyle specialist, Kirtley was a two event champion at the 2018 VHSL (Virginia High School) 3A State Championships, winning both the 200 and 500 free. At the 2019 iteration of the meet she finished 5th in the 200 free.

I’m so excited and honored to officially announce my verbal commitment to swim and study at West Virginia University!! Thank you to everyone that has supported me along the way. I’m so excited to be part of such an amazing team! Let’s go Mountaineers

Top SCY Times

• 100 free – 53.48
• 200 free – 1:50.85
• 500 free – 4:53.95
• 1000 free – 10:04.78
• 1650 free – 16:40.53

Kirtley will make an immediate impact on the West Virginia team after arriving next fall. With her best time she would have finished 4th in the 1650 free at the 2019 Big-12 Conference Championships, an event where West Virginia failed to place any swimmer in the top ten. She would also have scored in the B-final of both the 200 and 500 free, narrowly missing the A-final in both.

She will be joining a West Virginia team that finished 3rd at last years Big-12 Conference Championships, falling to both Texas and Kansas. The Mountaineers recently moved into a new aquatic center that was completed late last year. They will host the 2020 Big-12 Conference Championships this spring, the first time since 2012 that this meet will be hosted somewhere other than the University of Texas.

If you have a commitment to report, please send an email with a photo (landscape, or horizontal, looks best) and a quote to Recruits@swimswam.com.

About the Fitter and Faster Swim Tour

The Fitter & Faster Swim Tour produces swim clinics featuring elite stars of the sport and the most innovative teaching platforms. FFT Swim Clinics can be customized to meet age and skill level of every team and community. Call 786-837-6880 or visit http://www.fitterandfaster.com/ to learn more.

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Read the full story on SwimSwam: Virginia State Champion Miranda Kirtley Commits to West Virginia for 2021

By Lauren Neidigh on SwimSwam

2020 GIRLS INTER-AC INVITATIONAL

• Tuesday, January 28
• Newtown Square, PA
• SCY
• Full Results

TEAM SCORES

1. Episcopal 325
2. Penn Charter 251
3. Germantown 230
4. Notre Dame 204
5. Baldwin 145
6. Agnes Irwin 107

Episcopal Academy’s girls were crowned champions Tuesday night at the 2020 Independent Schools Invitational. Episcopal’s Kelly Feuzeu Mekoue helped lead her team to victory as she won the 50 free in 24.02. She raced to a sweep of the sprints, out-touching Baldwin’s Anya Mostek 52.40 to 52.47 in the 100 free shortly after. Mostek won her 2nd individual race of the night, clocking a 58.36 in the 100 back.

Episcopal had a handful of medalists contribute to the win. Riley Pujadas placed 3rd in the 200 IM (2:17.23) and 100 back (58.86). Bridget Egan was 3rd in the 100 free (55.66). The girls’ team of Emma Lunn, Egan, Pujadas, and Feuzeu Mekoue earned bronze in the 400 free relay. Lunn, Isabel Handal, Egan, and Feuzeu Mekoue were also 3rd in the 200 free relay.

In the 200 free, Germantown’s Emma Atkinson took down a 3-year-old Pool Record as she won in 1:50.97. That record was formerly held by Emma Sieberlich, a U.S. National silver medalist and NCAA Honorable Mention All-American for Virginia. Atkinson was within 3 tenths of another record with her 4:53.40 in the 500 free. That record is currently held by Sierra Schmidt, a Michigan All-American and WUGs champion.

The records continued to fall in the next event. Notre Dame’sMia Abruzzo clipped the 200 IM Pool Record in 2:04.47. That erased the former record held by Rachel Zilinskas, who went on to become an SEC medalist and NCAA All-American for Georgia. Abruzzo swept her individual races, posting a 56.83 in the 100 fly.

Sally Foley of Penn Charter took down a Pool Record in the 100 breast, winning in 1:03.12. The Penn Charter girls also swept the relays. They got started with a 200 medley relay win in 1:48.38. They continued on to win both free relays with a 1:39.09 200 free relay and 3:32.42 400 free relay.

The teams will next head to Easterns. The meet takes place on February 15th in Lancaster.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Pool Records Fall at Inter-AC Invitational; Episcopal Academy Girls Claim Title

By SwimSwam Partner Content on SwimSwam

Set of the Week is courtesy of FINIS, a SwimSwam partner.

This week’s set of the week comes from Kat Wickham, FINIS marketing coordinator and former swimmer at the University of Utah (SKO Utes).

This week’s workout was designed as a recovery day. Just some long easy swimming.

600 Warmup
400 Kick @ 3 minutes Rest
200 double arm backstroke @ 2 minutes Rest
300 easy swim

Wear Long Floating Fins for the kick and double arm backstroke.

For more tips and inspiration, visit the FINIS Community page today!

About FINIS, Inc.

John Mix and Olympic Gold Medal swimmer Pablo Morales founded FINIS in Northern California in 1993 with a mission to simplify swimming for athletes, coaches, beginners and lifelong swimmers around the world. Today, FINIS fulfills that mission through innovation, high-quality products and a commitment to education. FINIS products are currently available in over 80 countries. With a focus on innovation and the fine details of swimming, FINIS will continue to develop products that help more people enjoy the water.

Set of the Week is courtesy of FINIS, Inc., a SwimSwam partner.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: FINIS Set of the Week: Long Easy Swimming

By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

Courtesy: SMU Athletics

The Mustangs head to College Station Friday to face Texas A&M in dual action. Action will be streamed live on the SEC Network+, while results will be available via SMUMustangs.com and on the Meet Mobile App beginning at 6 p.m.

Live Results / Meet Mobile ($) | Diving Results | Live Video

SMU is 1-3 in dual action this season with a win over TCU. In mid-season competition, the Mustangs dominated the field at the SMU Invite, placing first of five teams in the three-day event by over 270 points.

Conference Favorite

Freshman Peter Smithson was named the American Athletic Conference Diver of the Week after his performance in dual meets against West Virginia and UIW. Smithson posted a personal-best 348.08 on 1 meter against UIW to win the event, and was also the leader on 3 meter against West Virginia.

Smithson has four wins on 1 meter this season, a pair on 3 meter and one on platform. He has also achieved the NCAA Zone qualifying score in all three events this season and will compete at the Zone D Championships in March.

This is the second time Smithson has been honored by the league (Nov. 26). Fellow diver Parker Hardigree was also honored on Nov. 5, while swimmers Petar Bozhilov (Nov. 5) and Caleb Rhodenbaugh (Nov. 26) have been recognized as well.

Last Time Out

The Mustangs fell in a pair of dual meets to West Virginia and UIW. Peter Smithson and Parker Hardigree teamed up to sweep diving events for the Mustangs, while Petar Bozhilov, Caleb Rhodenbaugh, Stephen Cheng and Ralph Koo all picked up individual swimming victories.

Rhodenbaugh swept breaststroke events against UIW and won the 200 against West Virginia, while Stephen Cheng was victorious in the 200 back in both events. Bozhilov’s win came in the 1,000-yard freestyle over WVU and Koo won the 100 back against UIW.

Academic Excellence

The Mustangs were recognized by the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) as a Scholar All-America Team for their fall semester GPAs. To earn Scholar All-America team honors, programs must achieve a 3.0 grade-point-average during the previous semester.

The men finished the semester with a 3.28 GPA, marking an improvement for the Mustangs from the 3.21 from spring of 2019 and the 3.11 from fall of 2018. The 3.28 was the highest GPA posted of any men’s program in the American Athletic Conference last fall.

Against The League

Daniel Forndal leads the conference in the 100- and 200-yard freestyles, while Caleb Rhodenbaugh has the fastest time in the 200-yard breaststroke and Colin Feehery in the 400-yard individual medley. In all, SMU holds six times in the top three of individual events and 34 times in the top eight. In relay action, the Mustangs have the league’s fastest 400 free relay time and second fastest time in both medley relays behind ECU.

Top 10 Performers

Seven Mustangs currently account for eight spots on SMU’s all-time top-10 performer lists, including four in the 200-yard breaststroke.

NCAA Qualifiers
2020 Swimming B Standards
Daniel Forndal | 100 free
Caleb Rhodenbaugh | 100 breast, 200 breast
Colin Feehery | 400 IM

2020 Zone Diving
Parker Hardigree | 1 meter, 3 meter
Peter Smithson | 1 meter, 3 meter, Platform

Scouting The Aggies

Texas A&M is 6-3 in dual action this season and is coming off a 182-113 win at LSU. The Aggies’ only losses this season have come at the hands of then-No. 2 Texas, then-No. 11 Georgia and Duke. Texas A&M won their mid-season invite in November.

In relay action, Texas A&M has already automatically qualified its 400- and 800-yard freestyle relays, while meeting the provisional standard in the 200-yard freestyle relay and both medley relays. Individually, the Aggie swimmers have posted five NCAA A cuts and 36 B cuts. Both divers have also achieved NCAA Zone qualifying scores on 1 and 3 meter.

Up Next

Following Friday’s event, the Mustangs have one dual meet remaining this season, a Feb. 7 Senior Day match-up with No. 1 Texas. The American Athletic Conference Championships take place in Houston Feb. 19-22. Postseason action starts with NCAA Zone Diving March 9-11 at the Robson & Lindley Aquatics Center, and the NCAA Division I Swimming & Diving Championships will be held March 25-28 in Indianapolis.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: SMU Mustangs Travel To Take On Texas A&M Friday

By Karl Ortegon on SwimSwam

Fitter and Faster Swim Clinics is the proud sponsor of SwimSwam’s College Recruiting Channel and all commitment news. For many, swimming in college is a lifelong dream that is pursued with dedication and determination. Fitter and Faster is proud to honor these athletes and those who supported them on their journey.

Breaststroker/IMer Jacques Rathle of Crawfish Aquatics in Louisiana has verbally committed to the Auburn University class of 2025.

“I am beyond blessed and humbled to announce my verbal commitment to further my academic and swimming career at Auburn University. From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I knew that I was home. Thanks to my family, teammates, and all of my coaches through the years.

By Karl Ortegon on SwimSwam

Fitter and Faster Swim Clinics is the proud sponsor of SwimSwam’s College Recruiting Channel and all commitment news. For many, swimming in college is a lifelong dream that is pursued with dedication and determination. Fitter and Faster is proud to honor these athletes and those who supported them on their journey.

Milla Ruthven of the Loveland Swim Club in Colorado has verbally committed to the University of Utah. She will join the Utah class of 2025.

TOP TIMES

• 200y free – 1:53.16
• 500y free – 4:54.98
• 1000y free – 10:03.59
• 1650y free – 17:04.14
• 200y fly – 2:03.63
• 200y IM – 2:08.67
• 400y IM – 4:21.66

Ruthven’s best event is the 500 free, though she can go up to the mile and is strong in the 400 IM, too.

At the 2019 Winter Junior Championships – West, Ruthven went her lifetime best in the mile (17:04.14) to place 19th overall. This past summer, at the 2019 Mount Hood Sectionals, Ruthven placed sixth in the 400 free (4:25.07) and 800 free (9:01.78) and touched seventh in the mile (17:20.70).

Ruthven would’ve been Utah’s #4 500 freestyler on last year’s roster. In 2018-19, they were led by Sara McClendon (4:47.19), a current junior. McClendon also led the way for the Utes in the mile (16:20.96). In the 400 IM, Utah just graduated Jordan Anderson, a 2019 Pac-12 A-finalist (4:08.75) who raced at NCAAs.

Ruthven is the first public 2025 commit for Utah.

If you have a commitment to report, please send an email with a photo (landscape, or horizontal, looks best) and a quote to Recruits@swimswam.com.

About the Fitter and Faster Swim Tour

The Fitter & Faster Swim Tour produces swim clinics featuring elite stars of the sport and the most innovative teaching platforms. FFT Swim Clinics can be customized to meet age and skill level of every team and community. Call 786-837-6880 or visit http://www.fitterandfaster.com/ to learn more.

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^{FFT is a SwimSwam partner.}

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Loveland Distance Specialist Milla Ruthven Verbals to Utah for 2021

By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

Courtesy: Pac-12 Conference

SAN FRANCISCO — The Conference office announced today that Reece Whitley of CALIFORNIA was named Pac-12 Men’s Swimmer of the Week and ARIZONA STATE’s Youssef Selim was voted Pac-12 Men’s Diver of the Week.

MEN’S SWIMMER OF THE WEEK: Reece Whitley, So., California (Lafayette Hill, Pa.)
Whitley had a standout performance in California’s second of two consecutive dual meet victories last weekend by breaking three Spieker Aquatics Complex pool records versus Arizona State on Saturday, Jan. 25. The former Pac-12 Freshman of the Year set individual pool records in the 100- (52.77) and 200-yard (1:53.65) breaststroke in addition to swimming a 23.85 split on the second leg of the Bears’ pool-record swim in the 200 medley relay (1:25.14). This marks the sophomore’s first-career Pac-12 Swimmer of the Week honor.

ALSO NOMINATED: Evan Carlson, ASU; Will Macmillan, STAN.

MEN’S DIVER OF THE WEEK: Youssef Selim, Sr., Arizona State (Cairo, Egypt)
Selim swept three springboard events in last weekend’s competition as No. 13 Arizona State competed against No. 19 Stanford and No. 2 California on Jan. 24th and Jan. 25th, respectively. The senior won the 3-meter springboard with a score of 408.83 and the 1-meter with a score of 354.00 versus the Golden Bears. He then put up a season-high 409.50 in the 3-meter against Stanford, marking his third victory of the weekend. Selim earns his third Pac-12 diving honor this season as he was named Pac-12 Diver of the Month in November, and Pac-12 Diver of the Week Jan. 8.

ALSO NOMINATED: Noah Vigran, STAN.

2019-20 Men’s Swimmers of the Month/Week

By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

Courtesy: Big Ten Conference

Swimmer of the Week

Beata Nelson, Wisconsin

Sr. – Madison, Wis.  – Verona – Psychology  

• Collected three first-place finishes against Northwestern last weekend
• Recorded first-place finishes and NCAA B-cut times in the 100-yard backstroke (51.98), 200-yard backstroke (1:54.18) and 200-yard IM (1:56.24)
• Broke three Wisconsin pool records at her final home meet as a Badger
• Garners her sixth career Swimmer of the Week award and third of the season
• Last Wisconsin Swimmer of the Week: Beata Nelson (Jan. 15, 2020)

Diver of the Week

Markie Hopkins, Northwestern

Fr. – Mission Viejo, Calif. – Capistrano Valley Christian – Undecided

• Recorded four NCAA Zone qualifying scores at a pair of meets this weekend
• Qualified for NCAA Zones and finished first in the 3-meter (331.58) and second in the 1-meter (271.35) in the win against Cincinnati
• Earned first place in the 1-meter (267.23) and 3-meter (298.80) while qualifying for NCAA Zones in the victory versus Wisconsin
• Earns her first career Diver of the Week award
• Last Northwestern Diver of the Week: Olivia Rosendahl (Nov. 14, 2018)

Freshman of the Week

Ally Larson, Northwestern

London, England – American School in London – Economics

• Collected seven podium finishes in two meets last weekend
• Finished first in the 200-yard butterfly (1:56.32) and second place in the 500-yard freestyle (4:46.98), collecting NCAA B-cut times in both events in the win against Cincinnati
• Finished second in the 500-yard freestyle (4:59.08) in the victory versus Wisconsin
• Garners her first career Freshman of the Week
• Last Northwestern Freshman of the Week: Hannah Brunzell (Jan. 22, 2020)

2019-20 Big Ten Women’s Swimming and Diving Weekly Honorees
Sept. 25

S: Maggie MacNeil, So., MICH

D: Allie Klein, So., MICH

F: Kaitlynn Sims, MICH

Oct. 2

No selections

Oct. 9

S: Beata Nelson, Sr., WIS

D: Sam Tamborski, So., IOWA

F: Millie Sansome, IOWA

Oct. 16

S: Calypso Sheridan, Jr., NU

D: Sam Tamborski, So., IOWA

F: Hannah Brunzell, NU

Oct. 23

S: Abigal Cabush, So., ILL

D: Taylor Shegos, So., ILL

F: Mallory Jump, PUR

Oct. 30

S: Tevyn Waddell, Sr., MINN

D: Emily Bretscher, Jr., PUR

F: Claire Abbasse, PUR

Nov. 6

S/F: Hannah Brunzell, Fr., NU

D: Jayah Mathews, Sr., IOWA

Nov. 13

S: Lindsey Kozelsky, Sr., MINN

D: Jayah Mathews, Sr., IOWA

F: Sofia Chichaikina, RU

Nov. 20

S: Terka Grusova, So., RU

D: No Selection

F: Sofia Chichaikina, RU

Nov. 27

S: Calypso Sheridan, Jr., NU

D: Emily Bretscher, Jr., PUR

F: Hannah Brunzell, NU

Dec. 4

No selections

Dec. 11

S: Maggie MacNeil, So., MICH

D: Joy Zhu, So., MINN

F: Kaitlynn Sims, MICH

Dec. 18

S: Kelsey Drake, Jr., IOWA

D: Jayah Mathews, Jr., IOWA

F: Millie Sansome, IOWA

Dec. 25

No selection

Jan. 1

No selections

Jan. 8

S: Freya Rayner, Jr., OSU

D: Joy Zhu, So., MINN

F: Hannah Brunzell, NU

Jan. 15

S: Noelle Peplowski, So., IND

S: Beata Nelson, Sr., WIS

D: Emily Bretscher, Jr., PUR

F: Hannah Brunzell, NU

Jan. 22

S: Maggie MacNeil, So., MICH

D: Joy Zhu, So., MINN

F: Hannah Brunzell, NU

Jan. 28

S: Beata Nelson, Sr., WIS

D: Markie Hopkins, Fr., NU

F: Ally Larson, NU

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Beata Nelson Named Big Ten Women’s Swimmer of the Week

By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

Courtesy: Big Ten Conference

Swimmer AND Freshman of the Week

Federico Burdisso, Northwestern

Fr. – Pavia, Italy – Mount Kelly – Major: Undeclared

• Won five individual titles and contributed to a relay crown in Northwestern’s dual meets against Cincinnati and Wisconsin last weekend

• Broke the Northwestern pool record in the 200 free (1:34.15) and the Wisconsin pool record in the 100 fly (:47.48) and posted an NCAA ‘B’ cut time in the 500 free (4:20.84) in the win over the Bearcats

• Earns his second consecutive and career Swimmer of the Week honor

• Last Northwestern Swimmer of the Week: Federico Burdisso (Jan. 22, 2020)

• Collects his third consecutive and career Freshman of the Week accolade

• Last Northwestern Freshman of the Week: Federico Burdisso (Jan. 22, 2020)

Diver of the Week

Jacob Fielding, Ohio State

So. – Los Angeles, Calif. – Maranatha – Major: Psychology

• Placed second on the one-meter (349.70) and three-meter (380.90) boards at the four-team Shamrock Invitational at Notre Dame last weekend

• Recorded NCAA Zone qualifying marks in both events

• Garners his fourth career Diver of the Week award and first this season

• Last Ohio State Diver of the Week: Joseph Canova (Jan. 22, 2020)

2019-20 Big Ten Men’s Swimming and Diving Weekly Honorees
Sept. 25

S: Miles Smachlo, Sr., MICH

D: Ross Todd, Jr., MICH

F: River Wright, MICH

Oct. 9

S: Anze Fers-Erzen, So., IOWA

D: Anton Hoherz, Jr., IOWA

F: Michael Huebner, IOWA

Oct. 16

S: Michael Daly, So., PSU

D: Jake Butler, Fr., MINN

F: Daniel Raisanen, PSU

Oct. 23

S: Paul DeLakis, Jr., OSU

D: Greg Duncan, Jr., PUR

F: Keelan Hart, Fr., PUR

Oct. 30

S: Max McHugh, So., MINN

D: Greg Duncan, Jr., PUR

F: Gavin Olson, MINN

Nov. 6

S: Miles Smachlo, Sr., MICH

D: Yohan Eskrik-Parkinson, So., NU

F: Marcus Mok, NU

Nov. 13

S: Max McHugh, So., MINN

D: Greg Duncan, Jr., PUR

F: Gavin Olson, MINN

Nov. 20

S: Jason Mathews, So., OSU

D: None selected

F: Thomas Watkins, OSU

Nov. 27

S: Mohamed Samy, Sr., IND

D: Greg Duncan, Jr., PUR

F: Michael Juengel, PUR

Dec. 11

S: Max McHugh, So. MINN

D: Ross Todd, Jr., MICH

F: Daniel Raisanen, PSU

Jan. 15

S: Tommy Cope, Sr., MICH

D: Mory Gould, Jr., IND

F: Federico Burdisso, NU

Jan. 22

S: Federico Burdisso, Fr., NU

D: Joseph Canova, Jr., OSU

F: Federico Burdisso, NU

Jan. 29

S: Federico Burdisso, Fr., NU

D: Jacob Fielding, So., OSU

F: Federico Burdisso, NU

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Burdisso Earns Big Ten Men’s Swimmer & Freshman Of The Week Honors Back-To-Back

By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

Courtesy: Pac-12 Conference

SAN FRANCISCO — The Conference office announced today that Abbey Weitzeil of CALIFORNIA was named Pac-12 Women’s Swimmer of the week and Briana Thai of CALIFORNIA was named Diver of the Week.

WOMEN’S SWIMMER OF THE WEEK: Abbey Weitzeil, Sr., California (Saugus, Calif.)
Weitzeil (Saugus, Calif.) dominated in Cal’s dual meets this weekend, helping lead the Bears to wins over Arizona (196-101) on Friday and Arizona State (192.5-97.5) on Saturday. The senior swimmer won all eight of her races in the home meets, breaking a pair of Cal dual-meet and Spieker Aquatics Complex records in the process. Against Arizona, Weitzeil lowered the mark in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 47.79, snapping the previous record of 48.06 she co-held. Against ASU, Weitzeil set a new mark of 21.73 in the 50 free. The senior swimmer also won the 200 free vs. ASU by nearly 4.5 seconds.

Weitzeil’s performance helped the Bears extend their undefeated record to 5-0. This is the second time this season Weitzeil has been named Pac-12 Women’s Swimmer of the Week.

Also Nominated: Katie Drabot, Stanford

WOMEN’S DIVER OF THE WEEK: Briana Thai, Jr., California (Alhambra, Calif.)
Thai (Alhambra, Calif.) swept the diving events in Cal’s dual meets this weekend, helping lead the Bears to wins over Arizona (196-101) on Friday and Arizona State (192.5-97.5) on Saturday. Thai won the 1-meter and 3-meter diving events during both days of competition. Against the Wildcats, the junior diver posted a 3-meter score of 294.60, besting second place by over 50 points.

Thai’s performance helped the Bears extend their undefeated record to 5-0. This is the time first this season Thai has been named Pac-12 Women’s Diver of the Week.

Also Nominated: Carolina Sculti, Stanford.

2019-20 PAC-12 WOMEN’S SWIMMER AND DIVER OF THE MONTH/WEEK

By Coleman Hodges on SwimSwam

In Practice + Pancakes, SwimSwam takes you across the country and through a practice day in the life of swimming’s best athletes. It breaks down training sessions, sub sets, and what every team is doing to be at their best. But why are they doing things that way? In Beyond the Pancakes, we dive inside the minds of coaches and athletes, getting a first hand look at why they do the things they do, and where their minds are pointed on the compass of evolution as a swimmer.

When SwimSwam went to visit Lone Star Aquatic Club, we saw some things there that we thought were pretty novel. However, perhaps the most novel thing we witnessed was head coach Adam Depmore’s philosophy on how to run his team, which can be summarized into: Safe and Scalable Fun.

As opposed to many teams, which run through rigorous 6K+ yard workouts morning and night in which attendance is mandatory for the top groups, Lone Star puts more of an emphasis on what each individual might want or need. Adam wants the kids to enjoy their time at Lone Star and gain general athleticism as well as a good swimming skill set.

He also encourages trying other sports, even at the high school level. If they decide to commit to another sport, Depmore can be happy knowing they enjoyed their time in swimming, hopefully gained something they can take with them, and may come back to it one day.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: Beyond the Pancakes: A Different Take on the “Club Team Mentality”

By SwimSwam on SwimSwam

By Joe Houchin

On the heels of the inaugural season of the International Swim League (ISL), a pair of parallel lawsuits against FINA will continue to move forward. On December 16, 2019, an order issued by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California denied FINA’s motion to dismiss the cases which were originally filed in December 2018. Additionally, amended complaints were filed by the plaintiffs on January 17, 2020, containing updated factual allegations against FINA including claims that FINA misappropriated ISL’s format by scheduling its own events with a similar prize format. FINA has three weeks to file an answer to the amended allegations.

The amended complaints allege that only upon filing of the initial lawsuits did FINA withdraw its threat of sanctions against swimmers and national governing bodies for associating with ISL. Plaintiffs go on to identify specific correspondence from FINA Executive Director Cornel Marculescu culminating in a June 5, 2018 letter where USA Swimming was pressured to break ties with ISL. According to the amended allegations, even though ISL unsuccessfully sought to partner with British Swimming and the Italian Swimming Federation, USA Swimming was seen by FINA as a key member federation and once they were influenced to end discussions with ISL, other federations predictably refused to lend their support.

Plaintiffs’ amended complaint additionally alleges that once the December 2018 ISL event was halted under pressure from FINA that FINA misappropriated ISL innovations by scheduling its own events mimicking the proposed ISL format. Although not specifically mentioned by name, the amended complaint references an event held from May 31 through June 1, 2018, in Indianapolis so it is safe to assume that plaintiffs are referring to the FINA Champions Swim Series as the copycat format. Plaintiffs acknowledge that following the filing of the initial lawsuit that FINA has indeed reversed course regarding the threatened sanctions, but contend that does not excuse the impermissible conduct.

Those tracking the litigation will remember that Americans Tom Shields and Michael Andrew along with Hungarian Katinka Hosszu brought a class action lawsuit against FINA alleging, among other claims, federal antitrust violations over FINA’s control of international competitions. The ISL filed a separate lawsuit for similar claims against FINA arising from the same conduct. The specific factual allegations contained in the complaints are detailed, but the distilled version of plaintiffs’ allegations are that FINA leverages its market dominance to control the terms of compensation and competition for elite level swimmers. In doing so, plaintiffs contend that FINA engages in impermissible anti-competitive conduct.

The dispute arises out of ISL’s original efforts to host an international competition in 2018 which was allegedly scuttled by FINA’s influence over various national governing bodies who were in talks with ISL to host the meet. FINA reportedly issued statements to member federations threatening sanctions for violation of FINA’s rules against unauthorized relations with a non- affiliated body. Subsequently, potential hosts for the planned December 2018 ISL event – including USA Swimming, British Swimming, and the Italian Swimming Federation – all declined to host the competition and the meet was cancelled resulting in lost appearance fees to athletes.

In responsive filings, FINA argues that clarification was provided on January 15, 2019 that swimmers choosing to participate in competitions staged by independent organizations like the ISL would not be in violation or sanctioned. Due to the clarification, FINA argued that the claims are moot; a contention the Court rejected. In a forty-four page Order, the Court ultimately denied FINA’s motions to dismiss the cases which will now proceed through a formal discovery process with trial scheduled in January 2022.

The future of professional swimming has shifted following the completion of the inaugural International Swim League season compared to when the lawsuit was filed in December 2018. Since then, the ISL concluded a three month season consisting of seven separate events involving more than 200 swimmers with more than $2.5 million awarded in prize money. Although not directly impacting the course of the case, the financial opportunities available to professional swimmers have improved since the cases were initiated. While the continued viability of the ISL is yet to be seen, FINA appears to have acquiesced to the existence of the ISL as an independent swim league and responded by increasing prize money to swimmers at FINA events.

The lawsuits are captioned Shields, et al. v. FINA, Case No. 18-cv-07393, and International Swimming League, Ltd. v. FINA, Case No. 18-cv-07394. Both cases are pending in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

ABOUT JOE HOUCHIN

Joe Houchin is a former collegiate swimmer and an attorney at Dysart Willis Houchin & Hubbard in Raleigh, North Carolina. The firm focuses on the areas of criminal defense, antitrust, and Title IX/student disciplinary investigations.

Read the full story on SwimSwam: ISL Amends FINA Lawsuit to Add Copycat Charges