<nds of Thorpe Natatorium were filled with friends, family, and professors, as the Knights honored the 13 senior swim and dive team members. For the class of 2009, this would be their last time swimming at a duel meet at Thorpe. Making the meet even more exciting was the fact that the Knights would be swimming against cross-town rival, St. Olaf.
After an emotional ceremony, the senior swimmers dove in the water for one last time at their home pool. For the men, seniors Elliot Bartis, Ted Marshall, and John Knapp lead the way, each one an individual event. Knapp made the most of his last meet as he dove to an NCAA qualifying standard on the 3-meter. The other senior men included Ryan Terrien, Jared Plotz, and David Nonberg, who all had strong showings in their respective events. Despite great efforts by all the members of the men’s team, the Knights were unable to hold off the nationally-ranked Oles.
Leading the way on the women’s side were seniors Kaarin Taylor and Becky Alexander, who both swam to first place finishes as well as helped the women’s team handily beat the Oles. Adding to help propel the Lady Knights to victory were seniors Caitlin Clements-Green, Lauren Knoche, Lucy Robson, Jennie Miller, and Amy Mixa.
Not to be outdone, the under and upperclassman put forth great efforts and performances. For the men, Sophomore Andrew Merring captured first place in the 200-yard backstroke. On the women’s side, sophomores Kale Zicafoose and Erin Heydinger , as well junior Kate Alexander added to widen the lead as they each clinched first place finishes.
Regardless of the outcome of the event, the mood on the pool deck was bittersweet. For the seniors, the meet was a testament to the hard work they have been putting in for the past four years. The energy, dedication, and passion for their sport could not have been better represented by their swims, as well as the swims of their teammates.