Schwippert, Dugan Earn Spots in 2012 Olympic Swim Trials - Buffalo Athletics

Making it Happen...!! Matt Shwippert (so) and Mike Dugan (fr) making things happen and many many more to come...!! Keep up the great work Buffalo! Go Bulls....!!!

Schwippert,

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Dugan Earn Spots in 2012 Olympic Swim Trials - Buffalo Athletics

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

Once again the University at Buffalo Swimming and Diving Team made things happen on the recruiting trail. This past year we signed 6 swimmers and 1 diver to add to our very young and talented team. The coaching staff pulled guys in from NY, OH, SC and PA. Each one of these athletes will play a vital role in our quest to win a conference championship and send multiple athletes to NCAA's. UB is on the move...!!!

This year's class was the only Mid-American (MAC) School to be recognized by collegeswimming.com. Go Bulls..!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

Buffalo Bulls Swimming and Diving is pleased to announce the addition of Tiffany Gowens to our coaching staff. Tiffany brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team as she was a standout swimmer for the Bolles School and Texas A&M. While with the Aggies Gowens was a Big 12 Champion and an NCAA All-American in the Distance and Relay events. We are extremely excited about Tiffany's arrival. UB is on the move....!!!

University at Buffalo - Division of Athletics News - Go Bulls!

Buffalo Swimming and Diving once again hit's a 1000% on APR report! This is the 6th year in a row that Buffalo Swimming has had a grand. Not too many programs in the country, if any, have had this string of success!

Go Bulls...!!!

University at Buffalo - Division of Athletics News - Go Bulls!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

UB Swimming and Diving Announces 2010-2011 Recruiting Class...!!!

Joining the Buffalo family next year will be 17 athletes from 6 states and Canada. This years class is full of Junior and Senior National qualifiers and a NCSA Junior National Team Member. With the success we had last year and the addition of these 17 athletes the future looks very bright from Buffalo Swimming and Diving!

Go Bulls...!!!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

Congrat's to Meili Carpenter for being named to ESPN The Magazine Academic All District I University Division 2nd Team for the second year in a row! Way to go Buffalo!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

The University at Buffalo men's and women's swimming and diving team announced its team awards for the 2009-10 season last week. Head coach Andy Bashor made the following presentations: Meili Carpenter and Jared Heine were selected as the Most Valuable; Alie Schirmers and Zach Rice earned the Most Improved Player Award; Caroline Simmons and Matt Schwippert were named Top Rookies and the Leadership Award went to Laura Powalski and Andrew Tamchyna.
Meili Carpenter

University at Buffalo get's Nationally Recognized by the NCAA

University at Buffalo - Swimming & Diving Press Release - Go Bulls!

The Bulls were one of 19 NCAA Divison I women's swimming teams to be included on the list! UB was the only MAC (Mid-American Conference) School on the list.

Great job ladies... keep excelling both in and out of the pool.

Meili Carpenter Named All-American After Stand Out Senior Season

Following her performances at the Women's NCAA Championships in March, senior Meili Carpenter became the first swimmer or diver in the school's Division I history to earn All-American status!

Meili was named All-American honorable mention after placing 11th in the 3-meter diving event and 12th in the 1-meter diving event. The top 8 finishers at the Championships are named All-American, while the 9th-16th place finishers earn All-American honorable mention.

This year's NCAA Championships were the 3rd consecutive for Meili, and by far, her most successful. In 2008, she became the first UB female swimmer or diver to qualify for the Championships. This season, Meili won both the 1-meter and 3-meter events at the MAC Championships and set a MAC record on 3-meter (350.65) on her way to being named Women's MAC Diver of the Year.

Congratulations to Meili!

Buffalo Swimmers & Divers Named to All-MAC Academic Team

Following a very successful season in the pool, six Buffalo swimmers and divers were named to the All-MAC Academic Team. The MAC honored 32 women and 18 men for their commitment to success in the classroom as well as their dedication in the pool. Consideration for this award is based on the following criteria: minimum of a 3.20 cumulative GPA, participation in at least 50 percent of the team's competitions, and athletic accomplishments during the current season. Freshmen are not eligible for the award.

Sam Palma, a senior from Lancaster, NY, has maintained a 3.85 GPA during her time at UB while majoring in history. She will graduate this May and will be attending graduate school at UB next fall. This marks the second time in her career that Sam has named to the All-MAC Academic Team.

Meili Carpenter, a senior from Boulder, CO, graduated with an undergraduate degree from UB last spring and is currently working towards a graduate degree in science education. Meili is one of 3 female athletes to be named to this team on 3 different occasions.

Andrew Tamchyna, a senior from Newmarket, Ontario, has maintained a 3.79 GPA as he pursues a degree in engineering physics. Andrew will be attending graduate school at the University of Missouri in the fall. He has also been named to the All-Mac Academic Team three times.

Chris Berloth, a sophomore from Ypsilanti, MI, has a 3.93 GPA and is working towards an undergraduate degree in English. This is the first time that Chris has been recognized by the MAC.

Jordan Matthews, a senior from Burnt Hills, NY, will be graduating in May with a degree in mechanical engineering. He has maintained a 3.75 GPA during his time at Buffalo and will be attending the University of Texas in the fall for graduate school.

Connor Vander Zalm, a senior from Kelowna, British Columbia, has maintained a 3.69 GPA and will complete his MBA from UB in the spring of 2011. Connor joins teammate Andrew Tamchyna as part of a select group of seniors who have been named to Academic All-MAC on 3 different occasions.

Coach Bashor Looks Back on the Season

After a very successful season, Head Coach Andy Bashor looks back on the Men's and Women's MAC Championships.

The Women broke 8 school records on their way to a 5th place team finish at the Championships. The team scored a total of 392 points, the most in school history, while placing 3 individuals on the All-MAC First Team! Here are some highlights:

Senior Meili Carpenter won both the 1-meter and 3-meter events on her way to being named MAC Diver of the Year and setting a MAC record on 3-meter. Freshman Caroline Simmons won the 100 free in a school record time of 49.69. She also placed 2nd in the 50 free (22.86 - School Record) and 8th in the 200 free (1:49.72 - School Record). Sophomore Alie Schirmers placed 3rd in the 400 IM (4:18.98 - School Record), 4th in the 200 IM (2:03.24), and 4th in in the 200 breast (2:15.91 - School Record). The 200 free relay and 400 free relay also set school records!

The Men broke 12 school records on their way to a 2nd place team finish, the highest in school history! Two men were named to the All-MAC First Team and six were named to the All-MAC Second Team, and.....Coach Bashor was named the MAC Swimming Coach of the Year! Here are some highlights:

The team experienced many "firsts" during the Championships including breaking all 5 relay school records! Freshman Matt Schwippert won the 200 back in a school and MAC record time of 1:45.23. He also finished 2nd in the 100 back (48.14; set the School Record leading off the 400 medley relay 48.12) and 2nd in the 100 fly (48.91 - School Record). Freshman Josh Meints set school records in the 100 breast (56.71) and the 200 breast (2:02.60). Senior Zach Ruske broke his own school record in the 200 IM with a time of 1:50.22.

Congratulations on a great season!

Meili Carpenter Propels the Bulls to a 41st Place Finish at the Women's NCAA Championships!

(An interview with Meili prior to the NCAA Championships...)



Senior Meili Carpenter capped off a fantastic senior season, and collegiate career, by becoming the first Buffalo Bull in school history to score at the NCAA Championships! As a result of her performance, Buffalo scored 11 points and placed 41st at the Championships!

Last Thursday, Meili competed in her first event in West Layafette, Indiana. She finished 12th overall on 1-meter after qualifying 12th in prelims. This was Meili's best finish, up to that point, at the Championships and the first time she had qualified for finals!

Friday proved to be an even better day as Meili once again dove her way into the consolation finals. She finished 11th place overall and improved her score from the prelims. Meili's final collegiate performance came on Saturday when she competed in the Platform event. She placed 20th overall, her best career finish in this event at NCAAs, and a great way to end her career.

Congratulations to Meili!

Buffalo Men Finish in 2nd Place at MAC Championships; Schwippert Breaks MAC Record in 200 Back

There is nothing like the excitement of a close team race during a championship meet! As 1650 began on Saturday afternoon, there was no doubt that each performance that evening was going to be extremely important. The team had plenty of opportunities based on how they qualified in the morning, but the question still remainded...Would it be enough to stay in 2nd place??? Only time would tell!

The evening began with the 1650. Senior Connor Vander Zalm finished 9th overall with a season best of 16:01.03, while freshman Zach Rice swam to a lifetime best of 16:04.76 on his way to an 11th place finish. The 200 back followed and once again saw 3 Bulls in the top 8. Freshman Matt Schwippert continued his outstanding meet as he won the event in a MAC and school record time of 1:45.23, lowering his time of 1:45.86 from the prelims. Seniors Zach Ruske and Andrew Tamchyna placed 3rd and 6th respectively in their final race as a Bull, leaving their mark on the program as a dynamic backstroke duo over the past 4 years!

The 100 free provided as much excitement as you could expect from a sprint event. Sophomore Simon Proudfoot tied for 8th in prelims and went on the win a swim-off to qualify for the final....which, once again, put 3 Bulls in the final. Jared Heine and Matt Hogan tied for 2nd with a time of 44.95, while Simon improved his position by placing 7th overall. Jared broke the school record in the morning when he posted a time of 44.67! In the consolation final, sophomore Chad Miller placed 2nd (10th overall) with a season best of 45.65.

In the 200 breast, freshman Josh Meints placed 4th overall with a school record time of 2:02.60! Josh was in 6th place at the 150, but battled back to finish ahead of two of the competitors. In the 200 fly, sophomore Chris Berloth also finished 4th as he tied his lifetime best with a time of 1:50.19. Chris was the only team member in the event and definitely stepped up to the challenge!

The final individual event of the meet was 3-meter diving which saw both UB divers qualify for a second round of competition. On Friday night, during the consolation finals, sophomore Colin Patrican (260.95) followed up his 4th place finish on 1-meter with a 14th place finish on 3-meter. Junior Kenny Rhoades finished 6th overall (327.95), improving upon his qualifying score of 305.10.

After doing exactly what they needed to do, the team stood in 2nd place heading into the 400 free relay and would stay there as long as the relay finished...legally! Despite some nerves and a lot of excitement, the relay not only finished but took it to the final touch as they chased down Eastern Michigan. The team of Matt Hogan (45.96), Simon Proudfoot (45.10), Chad Miller (44.59), and Jared Heine (43.95) finished 2nd with a school record time of 2:59.60, and just 17-hundredths behind Eastern!

More School Records Fall as Men Stand in 2nd place Following Day 2 of Championships

After a very successful morning, the team set themselves up for second most opportunities of any team at the competition. We had 15 individual swims, plus Colin Patrican in the consolation finals of 3-meter diving and 2 relays to complete the evening.

The 200 medley relay led things off as the relay team of Matt Schwippert, Josh Meints, Cory Zorsch, and Andrew Tamchyna placed 3rd with a school record time of 1:30.63, and just 67-hundredths out of 1st place! As the lone respresentive in the event, senior Connor Vander Zalm placed 5th in the 400 IM with a time of 4:00.00. His time of 3:59.21 in the prelims was a lifetime best!

The 100 fly quickly followed and provided the team with 4 scoring opportunities. Freshmen Matt Schwippert and Cory Zorsch qualified in the top 8. Matt broke the school record on his way to a 2nd place finish (48.91), while Cory finished 8th with a time of 50.27. In the consolation final, sophomores Chris Berloth (50.73) and Chad Miller (51.42) finished 11th and 15th respectively, just off of their performances from the prelims.

One of the biggest events of the evening was the 200 free, as 3 Bulls qualified in the top 8 and set the tone for the 800 free relay that would conclude the night. Freshman Matt Hogan placed 2nd overall on his way to breaking the school record (1:38.30), while sophomores Jared Heine and Simon Proudfoot placed 4th and 8th respectively. Jared improved from his morning swim on his way to a personal best of 1:39.32. Simon qualified with a lifetime best of 1:40.27 in the prelims and was just off of that in the finals.

Another school record fell in the 100 breast as freshman Josh Meints qualified with a time of 56.71. Josh placed 5th overall in the evening, just off of his morning swim. Senior Jordan Matthews placed 13th with a season best of 58.10, and was immediately followed by freshman Christian Muller who placed 14th. Christian's prelim swim was a personal best (57.84).

The final 2 events of the evening were the 100 back and the 800 free relay. The Bulls were represented by 3 individuals in the back with Matt Schwippert placing 2nd in a time of 48.14, just 2-hundredths off of the school record he set as the lead-off leg of the 400 medley relay. Seniors Andrew Tamchyna and Zach Ruske both had lifetime bests on the day, and placed 5th and 7th respectively during the finals. The 800 free relay concluded with a 2nd place finish for the Bulls and another school record. The team of Zach Ruske (1:40.89), Simon Proudfoot (1:41.90), Matt Hogan (1:38.07), and Jared Heine (1:39.84) swam to an impressive time of 6:40.70!

After day 2 of the Championships, the team was sitting in 2nd place, 41.5 points behind Eastern Michigan and 19.5 points ahead of Missouri State.....the final day would have to be a big one for the team standings to remain the same! Stay tuned!

Men Make Statement on Day 1 of MAC Championships

Thursday morning was the start of the Men's MAC Championships at Eastern Michigan. Here is a "short" recap of Day 1:

The finals session began with the 200 free relay. Like the women, the men have been waiting anxiously for several days for the meet to begin. After a very solid preliminary session this morning, we knew that great things could happen if all of the pieces fell into place. The relay team of Simon Proudfoot, Jared Heine, Andrew Tamchyna, and Ryan Smrekar placed 2nd overall and broke the school with a time of 1:21.93!

The first individual event of the day was the 500 free. Freshmen Zach Rice had an outstanding morning swim that qualified him 9th heading into finals. Senior Connor Vander Zalm qualified 8th with a lifetime best 4:32.94. Both men added at night, but were able to carry some of the momentum gained by the performances on the relay.

The 200 IM and 50 free quickly followed. Senior Zach Ruske broke his own school record in the prelims when he posted a time of 1:50.22. Zach finished 4th overall during finals. Freshman Josh Meints qualified 5th, but made a tremendous push during the last 50 tonight to finish 2nd overall with a time of 1:51.28. In the 50 free, Jared Heine (20.66) and Simon Proudfoot (20.86) finaled and took 5th and 8th respectively. The team was represented by Ryan Smrekar (21.16), Andrew Tamchyna (20.99), and Matt Hogan (20.96) in the consolation final.

The 1-meter diving competition came next. Sophomore Colin Patrican dove his way to a 3rd place finish after a tough battle this evening. Junior Kenny Rhoades finished 4th overall after qualifying first during prelims. This was the best performance by Buffalo divers at the MAC Championships in a very long time!

The last event of the evening was the 400 medley relay...and it was worth the wait! Freshman Matt Schwippert led off with a school record leg, swimming to a time of 48.12! Josh Meints followed with a breaststroke split of 55.69. The final 2 legs saw a head-to-head battle with Eastern Michigan and Missouri State. Freshman Cory Zorsch (49.10) and sophomore Jared Heine (44.25) fought to the end, placing 3rd overall and knocking 4 full seconds off of the previous school record!!!! Their time of 3:17.16 was 8-hundredths behind Eastern Michigan and 14-hundredths behind Missouri State. It was an amazing race, full of energy and excitement...a great way to end the evening!

Bulls Win 2 Individual MAC Championships on Final Night of Competition

On the final night of the Women's MAC Championships, the Bulls won 2 individual MAC championships and set 3 school records.

Junior Jordan Deren opened the evening session with an 8th place finish in the 1650 free. Her time of 16:51.77 was a season best and just off of her school record that she set at last year's championships. The duo of Katelyn Pratt-Collins and Caitlin Reilly led the way in the 200 back. Katelyn placed 6th overall with a time of 2:01.59, while Caitlin posted a time of 2:03.34 for 12th place. Both ladies posted lifetime best times in the prelims.

In perhaps one of the most exciting events of the meet, freshman Caroline Simmons won the 100 free in a school record time of 49.69! Caroline out touched Ohio University senior Chelsey Bower by a mere one-hundredth of a second. The previous school record (50.89) was held by Inger Rooneem and was set in 1998. Junior Jessie Koltz placed 11th overall with a lifetime best time of 50.59.

Sophomore Alie Schirmers broke her second school record of the weekend when she posted a time of 2:15.91 in the 200 breast. Her time was good enough for a 4th place finish overall. Brynn Marecki made a statement as she won the consolation heat of the 200 breast, dropping over a second from her prelim swim. Brynn posted a season best of 2:18.00 on her way to a 9th place finish.

Senior Meili Carpenter won the 3-meter competition with a MAC record score of 350.65! Meili took command of the event during the first round and never looked back. She was in such control that she could have won the event without performing her final dive!

The final event of the Championships was the 400 free relay. The team of Sam Palma, Jessie Koltz, Jordan Deren, and Caroline Simmons broke the school record from last year on their way to a 2nd place finish!

More School Records Fall on Day 3 of Women's Championships

On a day that brought about more opportunities for great things, the Bulls took advantage of the five individual swimming events. Friday evening started with the 400 IM and a school record performance by sophomore Alie Schirmers. Alie placed 3rd overall with a lifetime best of 4:18.98, breaking the previous record of 4:19.68 set by Jennefer Brankovsky in 2004. Junior Alisa Koopman placed 15th overall in the event and posted a lifetime best in prelims (4:32.01).

The 100 fly followed as sophomore Jessie Koltz and seniors Sam Palma and Emily Day competed in the consolation final. Sam finished in 11th place with a time of 55.97, just off of her prelim time of 55.65. Jessie was just behind with a 13th place finish (56.39), while Emily Day followed up her lifetime best swim (56.60) in prelims with a 16th place finish at night (57.25).

Caroline Simmons broke the school record in the prelims of the 200 free with a time of 1:49.72, and followed up her performance with an 8th place finish in finals. The previous record of 1:50.90 was set by Andrea Lehner in 2007. Junior Jordan Deren placed 14th place with a time of 1:50.98. She posted a personal best in prelims with a time of 1:50.63, under Lehner's previous school record.

The final individual events of the evening were the 100 breast and 100 back. Sophomore Brynn Marecki placed 6th overall (1:03.48) in the 100 breast, just off of her swim from prelims (1:02.75). Freshman Katelyn Pratt-Collins and seniors Caitlin Reilly and Jessica Ballard led the way as all three competed in the consolation final of the 100 back. Jessica won the heat with a lifetime best of 55.76. Katelyn placed 12th with a time of 56.83, followed closely by Caitlin who was 14th (57.25).

The 400 medley relay was the evening's final event. The Bulls placed 4th overall with a time of 3:44.67. The team of Jessica Ballard, Brynn Marecki, Sam Palma, and Caroline Simmons posted a season best time, and missed the school record by less than 4-tenths!

Carpenter Wins MAC Championship; School Records Fall in 50 Free and 200 Free Relay

Thursday morning's prelim session exceeded expectations as the Bulls posted numerous lifetime best performances and positioned themselves for a record breaking final session. The day's first event, the 500 free, was highlighted by Jordan Deren's 8th place finish (4:53.82). Four of the five preliminary swims by the Bulls in this event were lifetime best performances.

Sophomores Alie Schirmers and Brynn Marecki led the way in the 200 IM. Alie placed 4th overall with a time of 2:03.24, dropping 3 seconds from her previous lifetime best. Brynn placed 14th, with an in-season best prelim swim. In the 50 free, junior Jessie Koltz finished 11th with a personal best 23.29 and freshman Caroline Simmons placed 2nd with a school record time of 22.86. Caroline's time was also a NCAA "B" cut!

The final individual event of the evening was the 1-meter diving competition. Senior Meili Carpenter put the final touches on an outstanding season on 1-meter, where she went undefeated on 1-meter. After qualifying in first place, Meili made things a little interesting. She battled back following a slight miss on her first dive to win the competition and her first MAC Championship! Congrats Meili!

The evening concluded with the 200 free relay. The Buffalo team of Jessie Koltz, Sam Palma, Karly Moore, and Caroline Simmons placed 4th, breaking the school record. Their time of 1:32.92 broke the previous record set last season by nearly a full second!

Stay tune for more updates as the meet continues! GO BULLS!!!!!

Let the Championships Begin...Day 1 of the Women's MAC Championships

"LUCK IS WHEN PREPARATION MEETS OPPORTUNITY."

Wednesday night was the start of the 2010 Women's MAC Swimming & Diving Championships. It was the first day when the Buffalo women were able to put their "luck" to the test.

After prehaps the longest two hour warm-up in the history of swimming, the clock changed to 7 p.m. and the backstrokers for each of the medley relays entered the water. Within seconds, the 200 medley relay was underway and there was no turning back! The event did not disappoint, as a mere 6-tenths of a second separated the top 4 teams. The team of Jessica Ballard, Brynn Marecki, Jessie Koltz, and Caroline Simmons placed 4th with a time of 1:40.82. Although the Bulls were looking to repeat as conference champions, it was definitely a great start to the meet. The winning time of 1:40.20 fell short of the MAC record set by Buffalo last season.

Following a 30 minute break, it was time for the 800 free relay. After the excitement of the medley relay, it was hard to match the intensity that came from the fast paced relay, but the 800 would not take a back seat. There were several races within the race itself, including those for school records. The relay team of Jessica Ballard, Jordan Deren, Alie Schirmers, and Logan Mason fell just short of breaking the school record set last season.

Congrats to the Bulls...and let the LUCK continue!

Buffalo Women Gear Up For MAC Championships

With the MAC Championships beginning on Wednesday, the Buffalo Women's team headed to Oxford, Ohio today. After weeks and months of demanding training both in and out of the pool, the team has enjoyed their much deserved rest over the past two weeks as tapered began and the final stages of fine tuning were completed.

After arriving in Oxford this afternoon and checking into the hotel, the team headed to the pool for a loosen-up swim. The atmosphere is already one of excitement and anticipation as each team took advantage of the opportunity to "remove the travel". It was nice to see "old" friends and former club team members, while showing a lot of school pride.

Tomorrow night is the start of a weekend that compares to few these ladies will ever experience in their athletic careers. Stay tuned for more....

GO BULLS!

Senior Perspectives - Kevin Song

Kevin Song:
"I must say that the last 4 years have been full of great memories and moments, and I would not trade this UB Swimming experience for any other. As much as I look forward to growing fat and lazy after MAC's, over spring break and onwards, I will miss being a part of this team and being with such a great group of people. From the good moments, like beating Miami, academic successess, swimming wheels, posting best time sheets, dropping the hammer, and playing shree....to the difficult and challenging times, it has all been a very educational and rewarding experience. I am sure this experience will help me more than I know it in the coming years, and bring back many fond memories. This team has come a long way and accomplished much since I first joined, and this is just the beginning. I am glad to have been part of it all, and I am excited for the success the future will surely bring to the team. Go Bulls!"

Kevin

Senior Perspectives - Jessica Ballard

"Since I've been at UB, I've had a lot of great times, just as many hard times, and I've learned more than I need to know. Although, when I look back on my four years here, all I can seem to think of is what I will be missing out on in the years to come.

My first two years weren't my best; not marked by any unfortunate events, but not marked by any good ones. It was some time during my third year, when I was pushed (forcefully...) by coaches and driven by my teammates, that I remembered how to swim, and remembered how much I love it.

I did not find any degree of closure in writing this. I am ready to sleep in, to go to class dry, to go out on Friday nights, and to spend an extra fifteen hours a week being bored out of my mind. But there are many more things that I am not ready to give up. In leaving, I am overcome most, not by relief or excitement or extreme ecstasy, but by jealously. Now more than ever, I want four more years. This team has endless amount of potential and will continue to excel. I wish I could be a part of it."

Jessica

Buffalo Women Honor Seniors in Final Home Competition

It was a day to honor the 10 seniors on the Women's Swimming & Diving team. Prior to the start of their last meet at UB, the coaches, team, family, and friends took several moments to recognize each of the seniors. These young ladies began their time at Buffalo as a class of 10 and will finish their swimming career as a closer, more experienced class of 10. An impressive feat, to say the least!

The meet began with a season-best performance by Jessica Ballard, Brynn Marecki, Jessie Koltz, and Caroline Simmons in the 200 medley relay (1:44.68). The fast swims didn't stop as both teams continued to post impressive performances. Senior Jessica Ballard posted season-best times in the 100 back (57.70) and 200 back (2:05.02), winning the 200 by 5 one-hundredths of a second. Caroline Simmons won the 50 free (23.64), the 100 free (51.60), and was a member of the winning 200 free relay. Jessie Koltz placed 2nd in the 50 free behind Simmons and won the 100 fly (57.10), while swimming on both winning relays.

Seniors Meili Carpenter and Ursula Jeske went 1-2 on both boards. Meili broke her school record on 3-meter (347.48) for the 3rd time this season. She also earned a score of 324.59 on 1-meter. Ursula posted scores of 210.37 on 3-meter and 195.37 on 1-meter.

Congratulations to our seniors (pictured from left to right): Emily Day, Sam Eckert, Jessica Ballard, Ursula Jeske, Laura Powalski, Caitlin Reilly, Sam Palma, Kim Dale, Meili Carpenter, and Ashley Schaffert.

Men Finish Dual Meet Season at Penn State

The UB Men's team finished the dual meet season on Friday against Penn State. This meet marked the first time in recent history that the Bulls have competed against a Big Ten team in a dual meet.

The Nittany Lions presented a great challenge as the team headed into the final weeks of preparation for the MAC Championships. Jared Heine posted a season-best time in the 50 free (21.47), taking 2nd place. Senior Zach Ruske took second in the 200 IM (1:55.43), while freshman Matt Schwippert had a season-best in the 200 back with a time of 1:50.82.

Divers Colin Patrican and Kenny Rhoades stepped up during the diving events, claiming a 1-2 finish on both boards. Colin placed 1st on 1-meter with a score of 286.20, while Kenny won the 3-meter competition with a season-best score of 346.45.

Senior Perspectives - Sam Eckert

Sam Eckert:
"I can't believe that I'm actually writing my senior blog and I'm sure my coaches and teammates are surprised as well. The first week of freshman year I got lapped in the 50 meter pool by everyone and didn't know how to use paddles. I had completely forgotten how to race and train after taking 9 months off of swimming just because "I didn't want to swim". I almost quit.

Going into sophomore year, I thought it would be my last. I wasn't very good and I didn't think that swimming was going to benefit me in any way. That year, the men's and women's teams got combined and we brought on 2 new coaches. I was lucky enough to move from the sprint group to the mid-distance group with Aaron Bell (the best and worst things of my college swimming career). I began swimming much better that year and learned how to use paddles :) I went into the MAC Championships thinking it was going to be my last championships ever. Surprisingly, I did way better than I thought I would so I decided to stay for another year.

Junior year started out rough. Once again, I almost quit. My coaches talked me through it and I made it through another successful season.

And now senior year. It would be stupid to quit now after making it so far and overcoming so many challenges and meeting so many great people. I am one of ten girls who have made it through the last four years of college swimming together and I am extremely proud of myself that I can be a part of that group. Looking back on the last four years, I would have never predicted that I would even make it, let alone learn more about myself and life. I have to thank my coaches, Andy, Aaron, Courtney, Mike, and James, who have spent so much time and energy picking me up when I'm down and encouraging me when I wanted to quit. I couldn't have done it without them. I have always felt "out of my league" swimming on UB's team, but I have been able to overcome those feelings and fit right in. YAY!"

GO BULLS!
Sam

Senior Perspectives - Meili Carpenter

Meili Carpenter:
"Thank you to each of my "dads" for keeping me in the race."

--Meili

Senior Perspectives - Emily Day

Emily Day:
"When asked to reflect on my four years as a student-athlete at the University at Buffalo, I could only think of one way to do it: Comparing it to the 200 freestyle. This race for me has been a learning experience in itself as well as my college career.

The first 50, a lot like freshman year. The excitement behind the blocks getting ready to race, thinking you know everything there is to know about it. There is nothing you want to do more than hop up, hear the beep set off and dive in, much like my anticipation for that first year of college. I was ready to go get away and experience "life". You hit the water, however, and wheels are spinning, kick is out of control and you find out how quickly you were not quite as prepared as you thought. Freshman year for me had its ups and downs but by keeping a steady eye on the coaching staff on the side, I was able to stick with that first 50.

Second 50: Because of that first 50, you realize how fast you went out. You take it back, slow it down, compensating for that first crazy 50. Sophomore year, I learned from what I had done as a freshman and settled down. Maybe even held back a bit but I wanted to make sure. That year felt good but I knew there was more to me that what I left in the pool. I was ready to try again!

Then that fourth turn hit, OUCH! Who likes the third 50 in the 200 free? But that is where the true athletes shine. For this 50, for this year, I have to split it. The first 25 was out. I breathed every stroke, I lost it. My junior year, I had a knee injury that took me out of the season. I had admitted defeat, let the injury get the best of me but when I hit that 5th turn, I knew things had to change. The race wasn't over. In fact, I had a whole 75 left. That summer, I did my best to get back to where I needed to be so by my senior year, that 6th turn, that last 50, I could go ALL OUT!

And so far, I have done it all to make senior year the best I could. With three weeks left, I have never felt so excited to finish out my career as a Buffalo Bull. What the coaches have taught me in and out of the the pool, I would have never gotten anywhere else. This last 50 will be my strongest and greatest. 'Everyone can bring it home.' It's time I drop the hammer!"

Emily Day

Ballard Named UB Female Athlete of the Week

Senior Jessica Ballard was named UB Female Athlete of the Week on Monday following her performances against St. Bonaventure and Bowling Green over the weekend. Jessica won the 200 breast against St. Bonaventure, as well as the 200 medley relay. On Saturday against Bowling Green, Jessica won the 200 free (1:53.33) and the 400 IM (4:29.13). In both swims, she posted season best times. She also was a member of the winning 200 medley relay, where she went 27.1 on the backstroke leg.

Congratulations Jessica!

Senior Perspectives - Kim Dale

Kim Dale:
"These past four years didn't go as I had planned. There weren't any short cuts swimming at UB, and more times than not, the only way to get where I wanted to go was the long way around. I messed up and fell down, I tried things that didn't work and sometimes picked the wrong answer. It wasn't easy. But, despite all of that, the difficulty of what I did might just be the reason why I enjoyed it so much.

To keep this from sounding like an acceptance speech at an award show I won't spend too much time thanking everyone, but I couldn't have become who I am today without the people in my life now. My parents and sisters, first and foremost, who never stopped supporting me...and never hung up the phone when I called making ridiculous claims that I would fail out of nursing school, get kicked off the swim team or that I was going to drown in the pool. Equally important, I want to thank my teammates and coaches for pushing me farther than I thought I could go, encouraging me when I thought I couldn't keep going and for their humor in both good and bad times. Additionally, I want to thank my friends in the nursing department, who befriended me despite my chlorinated smell and me being either half asleep in class or hyped up on caffeine.

I have met so many wonderful people from all over, gotten so many diverse opportunities and my whole life changed because of that. These were some of the best times of my life and I got to wake up every morning smiling because of what I got to do here at UB and the people I got the chance to meet. I truly believe that I am the luckiest person alive."

Kim

Senior Perspectives - Laura Powalski

Laura Powalski:
"Over my four years on the UB Swimming & Diving team, there have been several changes and it seems each one has been for the better. We came into a women's only team freshmen year. By sophomore year, we were a combined team with a five person coaching staff. My sophomore year saw several MAC wins and an exciting MAC meet at home where our athletic director came in with a half blue-half white head. By junior year, the women's team saw the first ever MAC relay first place. Now, as a senior, I see this team and the transformation it has taken these years. We are recruiting outstanding athletes and have the strongest men and women's team this university has ever seen. This would not have been possible without the coaching staff and athletes that are a part of this team.

Continued success in this program is inevitable because when people come into this atmosphere, they want to stay and be a part of it. The ten girls that joined this program four years ago get to leave it together this February competing for a top four spot for the first time ever at the MAC Championships. Being a part of the magic was one of the best experiences I could have asked for. Magic - that's what it is.

This team has accomplished so much over the past four years, and I know it will continue in the future. As the season ends, I am sad that my fourteen year swim career is over, but I would not have changed my decision to be a part of UB's program. This is the best way to end because I have so many wonderful memories and am connected to really amazing people.

I want to thank you all for the past four years...Coaches - You guys created the best atmosphere for success. Juniors, Sophomores, and Freshmen - Thank you for these years together; I will miss you, and I know you guys will do great things. My Seniors - You created the dynamic of this team, and I thank each of you for shaping my life and showing me what it is like to be surrounded by passionate, people everyday."

Thank you so much - I will never forget the magic,
Laura

UB Women Secure Winning Record in the MAC with a Win Over Bowling Green

The women's team competed at home on Saturday night for the first time this semester. After having several meets on the road in the past 3 weeks, it was time to experience the benefits of a little "home cooking". With a MAC record of 3-2 and 2 conference meets remaining, a win on Saturday would secure a winning record for the 2nd consecutive season and for only the 2nd time since Buffalo joined the MAC in 1998!

As coaches we left out the history lesson prior to the meet and told them to step up to the challenge, to surprise themselves. The team did just that! The meet began with a 1-2 finish in the 200 medley relay. There was no slowing down, as the team won 14 of the 16 events.

There were many standout performances, but here are a few highlights: Senior Jessica Ballard won the 200 free, 400 IM, and was a member of the winning 200 medley relay team. Junior Jordan Deren won the 1650 free and the 500 free. Freshman Katelyn Pratt-Collins won the 100 and 200 back, and was a member of the 2nd place 200 medley relay team. Sophomore Alie Schirmers won the 100 breast with a lifetime best swim and placed 2nd in the 400 IM. Junior Jessie Koltz won the 50 free while swimming on the winning 200 medley and 400 free relays.

Bulls Take Down St. Bonaventure

The Bulls traveled to St. Bonaventure on Friday as we continue to tune-up for the upcoming conference championships. Both the men and women picked up victories on road, with standout performances by several individuals.

The women jumped out to an early lead with a 1-2 finish in the 200 medley relay and looked back. Senior Meili Carpenter won the 1-meter event with a score of 344.10, breaking her own school record and continuing her undeated season in the event. She also won the 3-meter event with a score 330.75. Individual event winners include Alisa Koopman in the 1000 free, Caroline Simmons in the 200 free, Brynn Marecki in the 200 IM, Sam Palma tied in the 50 free, Jordan Deren in the 200 fly, Jessie Koltz in the 100 free, and Alie Schirmers in the 500 free.

The men experienced a much closer meet, trailing until the 9th event of the meet. The 1-2-3 finish by Matt Schwippert, Zach Ruske, and Andrew Tamchyna in the 200 back gave the Bulls a lead that we would not give up. The team was led by senior Connor Vander Zalm, who won the 1000 free and 500 free, and freshman Matt Schwippert, who won the 200 IM and 200 back. Sophomore Chris Berloth won the 200 fly, while Kenny Rhoades won the 3-meter diving event.

Senior Perspectives - Sam Palma

Sam Palma:
"The memories that I will take with me from the UB swim team are all about the people. I have spent the greater part of my four years here swimming in the far end of the pool. The light isn't as bright and there is one jet that is so powerful that if you swim into it, it will blast you in the other direction. This is normally where the sprinters swim. We have easy access to the power towers, so at any moment we can strap-in and see who can pull the heaviest bucket the fastest. I have had the best time in the other end of the pool and running off of one meter, usually while distance does a fly set :)

The sprinters are a special type of people and are usually responsible for making me laugh so hard that it's nearly impossible to swim the set correctly; especially when Andy breaks out a "That's what she said". We compete with one another, the freshmen boys make whale calls (yes really), I have been called a werewolf on multiple occasions, act totally gangsta, and generally make Andy wonder how old we actually all are.

I have learned that it's the little things, those rare moments of pure joy (even at 6 a.m., thanks to Andrea Scharf) that make things special. This team has given me something to look back at and smile on for the rest of my life."

DO WORK
Sam Palma

Senior Perspectives - Caitlin Reilly

Caitlin Reilly:
"A lot has changed since my freshman year, but I couldn't imagine being in a better place than where I am today. When looking at universities four years ago, I was definitely hoping for a program with a joint team, and so the combining of the Men and Women's program after my freshman year was great news for me. Not only did it mean getting to race the boys, but it also meant the addition of Aaron as the new mid-distance coach, as well as the GA position, which has been held by two awesome people, Mike and James. Being a part of Andy's first graduating class here at UB, and having Courtney there every step of the way, has been an amazing experience. But certainly the most incredible thing about my time here is coming in as a freshman with nine other wonderful girls, and all ten of us making it the whole way - an incredible feat! To be apart of such a talented and dedicated class, on both the men and women's side, has made these last four years unforgettable.

Although my college career has undoubtly been filled with some of the best times of my life, my sophomore year was also a very difficult time for me because of a personal family loss, and if it wasn't for the support of my coaches and teammates, I don't know how I would have ever made it through. This team has come to mean so much to me and I'm really excited to see all the great things to come over the next few years! I will be forever thankful for the opportunities I have been given here at UB and I can't wait for MACs!

Go Bulls! Let's Get Some."

Caitlin

Senior Perspectives - Ashley Schaffert

Ashley Schaffert:
"My experience on the UB Swimming and Diving team the last four years has been a very rewarding one. Not only was I blessed with great teammates and coaches all the way through, but the experience has made me grow up and learn many things about myself. I don't think I would have enjoyed my college experience as much had I not been a part of this team. The hard work I have put in has translated over to academics as well. My teammates deserve most of the credit in my great experience here. Being on a team that is so close with each other has made my time here fun and memorable, even through the tough times. The coaching staff has been supportive and learning so much from my coaches, I am walking away a stronger person ready for what the future may bring."

Ashley :)

Freshman Josh Meints Named UB Male Athlete of the Week

Congratulations to freshman Josh Meints for being named the UB Male Athlete of the Week following his performances against Miami on Saturday. Josh won the 100 breast (58.79), 200 breast (2:08.43), 200 IM (1:55.45), and was a member of the winning 200 medley relay team. All three of his individual swims were in-season bests and helped lead the team to a win over the Redhawks and it's first winning record in the MAC since the 1999-2000 season.

Josh is the first member of the men's team to be recognized this season. Congratulations Josh!

Senior Perspectives - Zach Ruske

Zach Ruske:
"I have had a great time swimming for UB. I have accomplished more in the four years I've been here than I ever thought possible. I would not have had the success in the pool and in the classroom without the support of my coaches, teammates, and entire athletic administration. There are many memorable moments that I have had and shared with my teammates, from soap fights in the showers to beating Miami for the first time (Jan. 23rd). It has not hit me that there are only two dual meets left in my entire swimming career. I know it will be a very exciting yet sad day.

I have grown and learned so much from my time at UB. I'm confident that I will be able to use what I have learned at UB in the next chapter of my life. I'm looking forward to spending the next few weeks of the season with my teammates, training hard and having fun, while getting ready for the MAC Championships. I never thought I would be in the position I am today - Swimming for a Division I team, winning conference championships, having a coach who believes in my ability, and teammates who care for one and another like family. I have truly cherished my time with the UB Swimming & Diving program. If there's anything to be taken away from the four years I've been here it's to trust your instincts and believe in yourself!"

GO BULLS!
- Zach Ruske

Senior Perspectives - Connor Vander Zalm

Connor Vander Zalm:
"I have had a great time with the University at Buffalo swim team over the past four years. Being a student-athlete has been a constantly changing experience. From being a freshman, learning and growing from teammates and new experiences, to the upperclassman responsibilities and leadership positions. Our team has been growing and developing over the past few years to the point that we are in the battle for the top position in the conference. While we have been recruiting and training for success in the future, our conference has gone through changes that seem to have finally settled on something great. Our specific class has gone through so many changes and shifts, that I feel I am more prepared to deal with adverse situations in the future, especially thanks to help and support from coaches and teammates. I've a lot of memorable moments (and times that I have trouble remembering) with friends that swim or have swum with Buffalo.

What I think will stand out the most for me in the future is beating Miami today (Jan. 23rd). We went from our freshmen year struggling to beat Ball State to beating Miami, seriously competing against Eastern Michigan, and setting our sites for fast newcomers to the conference. I am excited for our team and what we can accomplish by the end of the season. We are on pace to have a great conference meet, and we will be ready for the last two dual meets we have against St. Bonaventure and Penn State. I am proud to have swam my college swimming career with this team and I look forward to seeing what else Buffalo can accomplish."

Good luck,
Connor Vander Zalm

Senior Perspectives - Andrew Tamchyna

As the season nears it's end, we wanted to recognize our seniors and allow them to reflect on their experiences at Buffalo. Over the next several days, we will share their stories. We hope you enjoy!


Andrew Tamchyna:
"The past four years at Buffalo have been quite an experience, to say the least. Being a student-athlete at the collegiate level has proven quite the learning experience, but being able to continue swimming while pursuing my undergraduate degree was a treat all the way through. The nerves before every race, and the hard, time-consuming training all year long, was all worth it just for the feeling of standing on the podium at the end of the season, knowing I have gone faster than I ever thought I was capable of. In a few weeks, I will have one final shot, and no matter the outcome, I know I can walk away thinking I'm proud of my accomplishments swimming for UB.

The whole swim team has become much like a family away from home for me. I have grown very close with many of my fellow teammates, and have truly enjoyed spending the vast majority of my time with them. From training trips to MAC Championships, every moment has been a blast. It'll be difficult having to say good-bye to everyone this year."

- Andrew

UB Men Beat Miami on Senior Day

On a day when the 6 seniors on the UB Men's team were recognized for their commitment and success, the entire team pulled together to beat MAC rival Miami in convincing fashion. Prior to the meet, seniors Jordan Matthews, Kevin Song, Connor Vander Zalm, Zach Ruske, Andrew Tamchyna, and Mike McDowell (pictured above from left to right) were introduced by members of the team and honored by all who attended Saturday's meet.

The meet began with a win in the 200 medley relay. Matt Schwippert, Josh Meints, Cory Zorsch, and Jared Heine finished with a season best time of 1:33.71. Senior Connor Vander Zalm won the first individual event, the 1650 free, in a season best 16:18.86, and followed with a win in the 500 free. Freshman Josh Meints was the only 3-event winner. Besides swimming the breaststroke leg of the medley relay, Josh won the 100 breast, 200 breast, and 200 IM. Other individual event winners were senior Zach Ruske in the 200 back, freshman Matt Hogan in the 100 free, sophomore Simon Proudfoot in the 50 free, freshman Cory Zorsch in the 100 fly, and sophomore Colin Patrican on 1-meter.

Saturday's win over Miami gives the Men's team a winning record in the MAC for the first time since the 1999-2000 season. Congratulations!

UB Women Make Statement Against Akron

The UB Women's team returned to competition last Friday when they traveled to the University of Akron. It was the first MAC meet for the team since early November and the women were looking forward to seeing how they stacked up against a much improved Akron team. The meet turned out to be one of the most exciting of the season, with the Bulls coming out on top by a score of 158-140.

The meet began with the Bulls winning the 400 medley relay in a season best time of 3:51.10. Jordan Deren followed with a win in the 1000 free. The score of the meet continued to go back and forth after key performances by members of both teams. Here are some of the highlights: Brynn Marecki and Alie Schirmers combined for a 1-2 finish in the 100 breast and 200 breast. Freshman Dani Adank placed 2nd in the 200 fly with a lifetime best of 2:07.4. Caroline Simmons and Jessie Koltz finished 1-2 in the 100 free, while senior Meili Carpenter continued to dominate on the boards. She won 1-meter and 3-meter, and reset her own pool record on 3-meter.

With only two events to go, the meet was tied at 131. Senior Jessica Ballard lead the way in the 200 IM, winning in a season best time of 2:07.42. Alie Schirmers finished 2nd in the event, and Brynn Marecki was 4th. The 200 free relay did not disappoint as the team of Jessie Koltz, Sam Palma, Karly Moore, and Caroline Simmons out touched Akron to win the event and the meet.

Team Begins Semester with 2 Wins on the Road

The first weekend of competition this semester for the UB Swimming & Diving team ended with victories against Niagara University and Binghamton University.

Saturday's meet at Niagara was highlighted by several performances including wins by senior Emily Day in the 100 fly, junior Alisa Koopman in the 200 IM, freshman Logan Mason in the 500 free, and senior Sam Eckert in the 50 free. These were their first individual wins of the season....Congratulations! The men won 11 of the 13 events including both relays. Notable performances include wins by freshmen Zach Rice in the 1000 free, Josh Meints in the 50 free, Matt Schwippert in the 500 free, Cory Zorsch in the 100 back, and Matt Hogan in the 100 breast. The meet provided the freshmen class with several great opportunities to step up and lead the team.

On Monday, the team traveled to Binghamton for a much anticipated competition, especially for the men's team who has had several close meets against the Bearcats in recent years. Both the men and the women showed up ready to swim and made a statement early in the meet. The Bulls swept the relays for the second consecutive meet. Outstanding individual performances include Meili Carpenter on 1-meter and 3-meter, Alisa Koopman in the 1000 free, Jordan Deren in the 200 free and 500 free, Dani Adank in the 200 fly, and a tie in the women's 50 free between Caroline Simmons and Jessie Koltz. The men were lead by Connor Vander Zalm in the 500 free and 1000 free, Josh Meints in the 200 IM and 200 breast, Chris Berloth in the 200 fly, and Matt Schwippert in the 200 back.

You can check out the full results on our website: www.buffalobulls.com

More from Florida...

Practice is over...time to go back to the hotel! Another great workout!


Seniors Jessica Ballard and Connor Vander Zalm hanging out on the wall after warm-up.

Head Coach Andy Bashor working with the sprint group during one of our afternoon, short course practices.

Hitting the Beach - Dryland in Florida

During our time in Florida, we took advantage of the beach as we changed up dryland. Our dryland workouts consisted of a circuit of 5-6 exercises followed by some running relays in the sand. Check out the first exercise from Friday's dryland session....

Training Trip....Bulls travel to Ft. Lauderdale

After a week away in Ft. Lauderdale, the team is back in Buffalo and preparing for the start of the Spring semester. It was a cold week in Florida, but one that included a lot of great training and time together as a team. We will be adding more pictures and videos as the week continues, but here are a few to get you started. We hope you enjoy!


The team getting ready for practice on Friday afternoon....by far the warmest day we had during our time in Florida.

Andy and James discussing the details of practice.

Sunrise at the pool...seeing the sun was a sign of warmer things to come each day!
One of our last mornings at Pine Crest. We trained long course in the mornings and short course in the afternoons. It was nice to mix things up!

Coach Bashor Talks About The Season

Head Coach Andy Bashor talks about the first half of the 2009-10 season, including how the team has been training up to this point and how the men's and women's teams have grown together over the past 3 seasons.