Grand Rapids, Mich. – The Aquinas men's swim and dive program, along with head coach Kristy Hepp, are excited to announce the signing of Joseph Rush. The Oscoda, Mich., native recently graduated from Oscoda High School and plans to major in business administration at Aquinas.

Rush has been swimming for 10 years while also trying out baseball and soccer for three years apiece. At Oscoda, he was named the team captain from 2021-23. His team, the Owls, placed second at the 2022 Independent Swim Conference Championship held at Saginaw Valley State. 

"We are thrilled to welcome Joe to the team family!" Hepp said. "He has played a big role on his high school team both in leadership and in competitiveness, and he is ready to do what it takes to compete at the next level. After his campus visit with the team, I knew we had to have him on the team. His personality, work ethic, attitude and commitment to the sport fits well with our team's culture and goals."

After his campus visit, Rush knew he wanted to come to Aquinas as well.

"The welcoming atmosphere and beautiful campus so close to Grand Rapids," he said was the reason why he ultimately choose AQ.