Women's Swimming

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Oct. 23, 2007

It's been an eventful week for Gaucho swimming, and more specifically for our beloved Campus Pool. Campus Pool--built in the World War Two era to train U.S. Navy Seals--is in the twilight of its life. It suffered a setback this week in the bursting of a ten-inch filtration pipe, and just like that we were out of a home.

We've been training this week at the Rec Center along with men and women's water polo, as well as a myriad of other aquatic athletes, as we gear up for our first travel meet against Arizona State University. Despite the change of scenery, there has been plenty to be excited about on deck. Volunteer Assistant Coach Mark Warkentin recently qualified for the Open Water World Championships in Seville and is one step closer to the 2008 Olympic Games. His performance has added fuel to an already frenzied training atmosphere.

This weekend's meet should prove to be a great meet-not just because it's being hosted in my home state-but because it's the first time both our men and women will be competing together. The unique closeness of our men's and women's programs adds a competitive advantage when we face more challenging opponents. Arizona State's women are having an especially successful season, but we are hoping to use our excellent training base and camaraderie to unseat them. Conversely, their men have been struggling as of late and will certainly be focusing on tallying a quality non-conference win.

No matter the outcome, this weekend is going to be a great team experience. And hopefully while we are gone, Campus Pool will mend itself and be ready to host practices again Monday morning!