As the weather gets colder, the water gets more competitive. With the Patriot League Championship on the horizon, Colgate University Swimming & Diving has its sights set on the ultimate prize of taking home gold against familiar foes in Annapolis, Md. Teams across the Patriot League send their best athletes for a four-day clash that cements legacies and establishes triumphs for the programs that walk away with a medal.
As of Jan. 24, Colgate’s Women’s Swimming and Diving team holds a record of 6–2. The Raiders have found consistent success throughout the season, with notable victories against Lafayette, Fairfield and Holy Cross.
“The vibes are super high,” senior captain Audrey Collins said. “Coming off two great dual meets, we are super excited. We’ve all worked really hard, so we are excited to give it our all in a few weeks.”
First-year Katie Miller is one swimmer to keep an eye on. Miller was recently awarded Patriot League Rookie of the Week following several key victories against Holy Cross last weekend.
“She’s had a great season and she’s super fun to watch,” Collins said. “I’m especially looking forward to her mile at the conference.”
Another athlete to watch is Ellie Sundin, a junior diver, who has consistently been a bright spot for the Raiders this season, placing first against Lehigh and second against Holy Cross. Paige Fisher and Allie Phillips also earn mention from their head coach as freshmen to follow in the championships.
On the men’s side, the confident outlook with the championships on the horizon has similarly manifested despite their 1–7 record. Senior captain Mathew Szypula spoke about the upward momentum the team has been feeling recently.
“We have been extremely positive since returning from our training trip in California a few weeks ago,” Szypula said.
Despite tough losses against Lehigh, Lafayette, Boston University and Holy Cross, dealing with illness throughout the season and key departures of several junior athletes studying abroad, the men’s team remains optimistic ahead of the Patriot League Championships, according to Head Coach Ed Pretre.
First-year Nick Pompo has been a spark for the men’s diving squad and is certainly an athlete to watch during the championships. David Brophy and Michael Granin have each made their mark on the program this season by breaking school records in their respective events, setting the bar high for other competitors across the Patriot League as the championships approach. Pretre identified Szypula and Granin as the athletes to be on the lookout for during the Patriot League Championships. He also said juniors Tim Brooks, Jack Schurtz-Ford and MG King could turn in good performances. Szypula wanted to recognize senior Jack Lira for working hard all season and solidifying himself as a key leader for the men’s team moving forward.
When all is said and done, confidence in your squad is most important. Pretre certainly believes in his athletes with the quest for gold on the horizon.
“The preparation, leadership and relentless energy this team has shown all season has been exceptional,” Pretre said. “This group is truly building something special, and the momentum is very real — honestly, it’s the best I’ve seen in my seven years here.”
The Raiders will look to finish their seasons on a high note when the Patriot League Championships begin on Feb. 18.
