Members of the swimming and diving team prepare for a meet at Forbush Natatorium. The team is 7-1 this season and several members have received individual accolades this year.
With almost half the season complete, it’s time to reflect on a successful year for the women’s swimming and diving team.
After dropping their first dual meet against Wagner University Oct. 11, the team has knocked off seven straight opponents to tie their longest winning streak of the past five seasons.
Along the way, Catamounts have collected four America East Performer of the Week awards. Most recently, the team took home sixth place at the Bucknell Invitational, where six new team records were set.
Junior diver Maggie Preston is having a stellar year on the diving board, having already collected three consecutive Athlete of the Week awards. First-year swimmer Shannon Cowley, who helped set records in the 100 and 200-yard breaststroke events, recently claimed the fourth award.
“We have a very strong team this year and we know that we have a lot of potential, so I do think we are more focused this season” Preston said. “We’ve been working really hard to do as well as we are, and we are continuing to keep each other motivated.”
The roster is well balanced this year, with an even distribution of veteran leadership with young talent. The team has at least five athletes from every grade.
Their success may have to do with the coaching of two-time America East Coaching Staff of the Year Recipient, Gary Cournoyer, who is currently in his 15th year with UVM. Look for the team to carry their success into the coming weeks, where they hope to take home first place at the America East and ECAC Championships.
