SWIMMING AND DIVING TEAMS HEADED IN DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS

12/04/2013

The Bridgewater State University men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams are headed in opposite directions.

The men have struggled with a 1-5 record, while the Lady Bears have performed better at 4-5.

Despite both teams being at different places at this point in the season, the coaching staff has noticed the effort they have put in.

Junior Terry Mullen powering through her race. Kendra Perry photo.

“The thing I’ve liked the most about the season so far is their hearts and effort,” said head coach Michael Caruso. “They practice as good as any team I’ve ever seen and they’re as dedicated as any group I’ve ever seen. They are a lot of fun to be around this year.”

After three weeks off since their last meet, the men’s team took on Gordon College Tuesday night. The Lady Bears faced off against Gordon College as well, but their last meet came on Nov. 23 in a 128-51 loss to Eastern Connecticut State University.

Against Gordon, both teams lost with the men dropping a 166-109 decision and the women losing 151.5-119.5. The Bears received a first place finish from junior John Holmes in the 50 freestyle.

Even with the result against Gordon, the men’s team is sticking together.

“Overall, this season our team has just done a really good job working together,” said senior captain Charles MacDonald. “We’ve had a really good chemistry in and out of the water this year which is definitely the best since I’ve been here.”

On the other side, seniors Ashley Dunican, junior Sarah Rechtiene, and sophomores Michaela Pereira and Brooke Pacheco each won individual events against Gordon.

The Lady Bears will now prepare for the Little East Conference Championships hosted by the University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth at 11 a.m, on Dec. 7, where they will look to bring back some hardware.

“We’ve been working really hard this year,” said senior captain Kimberly Minnette. “We’ve been doing a lot out of the pool, more than usual, so I’m looking forward to going to the championship. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone do their best which is all they’ve been doing so far.”

With the season almost halfway over, Caruso hopes the team keeps up their determination to the end of the season.

“I’m looking forward to continuing with that positive and fun attitude,” said Caruso. “That’s where we’re at right now. Clearly we’d like to see wins and drop some times but we’ve got to continue to have these guys motivated and continue to have their heart and dedication, that’s more important to us.”

The next regular season meet for both teams is on Jan. 8 at Elms College at 4 p.m.

Emily Hayes is a Comment sports writer. Email her at e4hayes@student.bridgew.edu.