THE 2005-2006 SEASON FULL OF

YOUTH AND IMPROVEMENT

Apr. 3: Both the 2005-2006 men's and women's swimming and diving teams showed tremendous improvements from a year ago.

The women's outstanding season was highlighted by their best finish in the conference since 2003. In addition, the women's 200 Freestyle Relay won the Liberty League, while the 200 Medley Relay team broke a seven year old University Record. That team was comprised of Nikki DaSilva, Kate Farrell, Alida Gerritsen, and Kim Watcke.

DaSilva, a first year standout, finished the 100 Backstroke with a new school record of 1:00.78, while placing 4th in at the state championships. The women's team not only improved on their dual meet record from last season, but also exhibited substantial individual success as well as ninety percent of the squad finished with career best times in one or more of their events.

The men's team also saw significant improvement in both team and individual success. Senior Brian Wasserstein had a career state championship effort. The Delmar, NY native was the Saints' mainstay all season in the IM and middle distance stroke events. Wasserstein swam all career best times and finishes, as well as leading off the 800 Freestyle Relay with a significant drop in his 200 Free time.

Freshmen Matt Feldman, Mike Trumbower, and Garrett Spencer all had tremendous first years for the Saints. The trio combined to score significant points during their rookie campaigns and also provided the core of the 10th place 200 Freestyle Relay, the highest relay finish for the St. Lawrence's men's swimming team at the conference championships. The coaching staff was wowed by Trumbower's improvements at the conference meet. The Naples, NY native dropped 26 seconds in the 500 Freestyle, while also dropping five seconds in the 200 Free.

Freshman diver Eric Velasquez also made contributions to the Saints' championship efforts as he scored in the 3 meter diving event. Velasquez proved to be a critical addition during the dual meet season, scoring points in many close contests.

The Saints will next look to a strong incoming class of recruits for the 2006-2007 season, which includes two Connecticut state finalists, and the Minnesota state champion in the 50 and 100 Freestyle events.