Owls Make Big Splash Against University of Maine and Vermont

KEENE, N.H. 11/13/10 - The Keene State College Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving teams opened up their home season with a splash against Division I University of Maine and University Of Vermont. The Owls men’s team rose to the challenge and won both relays and 13 of the 16 events against the Black Bears, led by freshman Drew Ledwith. The Women matched well against Vermont and Maine, led by All-American swimmer Kaila Umbarger with two individual wins.

“The men did extremely well against Maine,” said KSC head coach Jack Fabian. “The women matched up well against two very deep and strong Division I programs. Overall it was a big day for us as a team.”

The men who defeated the Blackbears 181 to 105, were paced by Ledwith’s victories in the 200 (1:45.54) and 500 free (4:37.50), 200 fly (1:58.33) and was a member of the first place 400 free relay (3:17.82). 

Senior Cody Larrimore took first in the 50 (21.58) and 100 free (48.09), and was a member of the first place 200 medley (1:38.17) and 400 free relay teams.

Freshman Jared Hyde finished first in the 100 breast (1:01.94), 200 IM (2:00.31) and was part of the first place 200 medley relay team.

Senior Conner Pennoyer placed first in the 100 fly (52.93) and was a part of the first place 400 free and 200 medley relay teams.

Also taking home victories for the men was James Black in the 100 back (56.11), Justin Churchill in the 200 back (2:04.04) and freshman diver Josh Tuller took first in the men’s 1 meter diving (227.15).

The women finished behind the Black Bears 192 to 105 and fell to the Catamounts 189 to 95. Against Maine the Owls won 6 events. Umbarger won the 50 free (24.60) and 100 free (54.23). Junior Maureen O’leary won the 100 free (1:00.71) and 200 fly (2:15.81). Freshman Lianna Wissmann also pitched in winning the 100 back (1:02.27) against the Black Bears.

The Owls also took second in the 200 medley relay (1:51.70) and the 400 free relay (3:43.67).

Keene State return to action Saturday, at Wheaton College with Springfield in a tri-match scheduled to start at 1:00 p.m.