Swimmers and Divers Make Waves at Bucknell

“All in all, there were 22 improvements in the women’s top five [times of the season] and 29 in the men’s top five [times of season],” Head Coach Jim Dailey said.

 

At invitationals, swimmers are welcome to pick their own events. Completing his first season on the team, freshman Scott Bradley achieved personal bests in the 200-yard and 100-yard freestyle.

 

When asked about his thoughts while swimming the 200-freestyle, Bradley said, “Knowing it was my last race of the season, I really wanted to make it worth it. I thought I was actually going too slowly, so I put my head down and pushed through the last few laps and looked up to see my best times.” 

 

Bradley also helped a 200-relay team of Ryan Himmelwright ‘14, James Kugel ‘13, and Stephen Schappert ‘14 to a third place finish (1:39.99). Now, he plans to spend his off-season focusing on classes and building his strength.

 

Score was not kept for teams during this invitational, which allowed swimmers to explore different opportunities instead of placing them in the events where they are most competitive.

 

Senior Christina Brown made an impression at the invitational, pulling off the only win for Lafayette in the 400-yard individual medley.

 

“It was the first time I swam [this race] this season, and, I’m not going to lie, it was painful,” Brown said. “I was really happy with my time though, and I think it will set

me up nicely for Patriots.”

 

For the members of the team who are participating in championships at Bucknell, the next few weeks will be spent resting and focusing on elements of their race strategy like speed and technique.

 

According to Dailey, the swim team is on track for success. Aside from more personal bests, he said he would like to see some new school records from both the men’s and women’s sides.

 

For seniors, like Brown, who will finish their swimming or diving career at championships, it is a prime opportunity for reflection.

 

“This season has been more about enjoying myself and appreciating swimming as a sport,” Brown said. “We should have a lot of memorable races.”

 

Patriot League Championships will take place February 21, 22, and 23 at Bucknell’s Kinney Natatorium.