Grand Rapids, Mich. — The AQ Swim and Dive women's and men's teams made program history, earning the most wins in a single season for both squads. The women secured their seventh win of the season, while the men achieved their eighth victory, solidifying a standout year for the Saints.
The Saints dominated from start to finish, winning 25 of the 26 events contested during the meet. Both teams set the tone early by taking first and second place in the 200 medley relays, laying the groundwork for a day of individual and team excellence.
Men's Team Highlights
The men's team showcased incredible performances, led by sophomore captain Titus Smith, who was unstoppable in the pool. Smith won both the 200 IM (2:00.79) and 100 butterfly (53.91). He also delivered the fastest lead-off leg of the day in the 200 freestyle relay, coming close to a personal best time.
Freshman Lucas Mondro had a breakthrough day in his sprint freestyle events, earning victories in both the 100 freestyle (49.52) and 50 freestyle (22.79). His explosive swims underscore the depth and potential of Aquinas' young talent.
Women's Team Highlights
On the women's side, freshman Emersyn Joslin was a standout competitor, winning two individual events: the 50 freestyle (26.12) and 100 backstroke (1:02.38). She also contributed to the team's victory in the 200 medley relay, leading off with a strong swim.
Sophomore captain Amelia Edens displayed her versatility by winning two endurance events, the 200 freestyle (2:05.92) and 500 freestyle (5:44.64), further demonstrating her ability to excel across a variety of events.
Stellar Performances by Aquinas Divers
The divers stole the show with a series of personal bests, NAIA national qualifying scores, and even a new school record.
Men's Diving
- Sophomore captain Evan Bennett led the charge, winning both the 1M (267.5 points) and 3M boards (239.30 points).
- Sophomore Troy Borrero earned second place on both the 1M (257.05 points) and 3M boards (227.25 points), with his 1M score marking a personal best.
- Freshman Lucas Castillo placed third on both boards with personal-best scores and achieved NAIA national qualifying marks on the 1M (219.45 points) and 3M boards (209.80 points).
- Collin Alward finished 4th on the 1M (177.70 points) and 3M boards (138.9 points), scoring personal bests.
Women's Diving
- Freshman Emma Nibbelink delivered an unforgettable performance, winning the 1M (189.55 points) and 3M boards (205.15 points). Her 3M score not only qualified her for the NAIA national competition but also set a new school record.
- Junior Taylor Moss achieved a personal best and an NAIA qualifying score of 182.25 points on the 1M board.
- Junior Anna Benstead completed her best meet to date, finishing third on the 1M board with a strong score of 127.05 points.
Program Milestones
Today's victories marked a historic milestone for both the men's and women's teams, reflecting the program's rapid growth and rising competitiveness. With a total of 15 individual and relay event wins across both squads, along with outstanding performances by the divers, the Saints are poised for continued success as they build on this record-breaking season.
As the Saints prepare for upcoming meets and the postseason, their confidence and momentum are at an all-time high. Congratulations to the athletes and coaching staff for an unforgettable day in Aquinas College swimming and diving history!
