The Cowboys and Cowgirls swimming and diving teams won both meets they competed in so far this year. Both teams traveled to Colorado Springs, Colo., over the weekend to compete against the Air Force Falcons. With the victories claimed at the meet, the Cowboys’ overall record improved to 2-0 while the Cowgirls’ record also improved to 2-0. It was the men’s team’s first win for its first dual meet of the season.
“Both teams swam very well today,” Wyoming head coach Tom Johnson said. “I was very impressed with our performances. We came out a looking a little rusty but really improved as the meet went on. Both teams were able to take an early lead and never look back.”
Cowgirl Morgan Hartigan shined during Saturday’s competition as she improved the team’s lead by winning all three of her events. Hartigan, a junior, has proven herself essential to the Wyoming swimming and diving team. Coming out of her last season where she was recognized as one of the most talented all-around swimmers and young leaders on the team, Hartigan hopes for just as much triumph this season. Last year she swam in six events at the Mountain West Championships, finishing in the top eight of all six, according to the Wyoming Athletics Department. She also earned All-MW honors in each of the events. Her 200 freestyle relay All-MW honor was the second of her career.
Another notable swimmer during the meet was sophomore Adam Kalms. Kalms also won all three of his events with tremendous success, giving UW the lead. His performance in the 200 freestyle was notable, finishing with a time of 1:39.17.
“Adam’s 200 freestyle was an unbelievable swim at 7,200 feet,” Johnson said.
Kalms, one of the younger members on the team, had his position sealed on the team from day one. During his very first collegiate swim event in spring of 2012, he took a victory that had an immediate impact for expectations on his career. His best performances thus far have been from the 100 and 200 freestyle. As the season continues, Kalms hopes to strive for more titles.
Saturday’s event had many other strong competitors who made the teams’ wins against the Falcons possible. Notable performers included Cowgirls Jordan Denny, Jessy Badaracco, Emily Stucky, Nicole Hlavacek, Aliyah Mikulski, Stephanie Young, Claudia Carlson, Keara Chang and Sasha Andrie. For the Cowboys, other notable performances came from Mike McCormick, Nick Rutecki, Jeff Frey, George Eglesfield, Tyler Kybartas and Jayce Calhoon.
Wyoming’s swimming and diving team members will hit their practices hard at the Corbett pool as they await their next invitational in Houston, Texas. The event is scheduled for Thursday through Saturday.
