2007-2008 Women's Swimming and Diving Season Outlook
Head coach Steve Kuster heads into his eighth season as head coach of the women’s swimming and diving team coming off a seventh consecutive NESCAC title and an impressive 6th place finish at nationals. In 2006-07, the Eph squad started off slow, losing some dual meets early, but hit their stride late in the year, creating optimism and enthusiasm for the upcoming season.
“We are definitely young but I don’t think that’s necessarily a problem,” said Kuster. “I think we’re young and good, and there are more standouts and potential standouts than last year.”
The key storylines for 2007-2008 will be the quest for an impressive eighth consecutive conference title, the leadership of the senior class, the progression of returning All-American sophomore Amanda Nicholson, and the performance of the first-year class.
The senior class features captains Michelle Kurkul and Jenna Barbary, as well as Annie Ferguson, Christina Haley, Julie van Deusen, Elizabeth Upton, Katherine Peterson, Nicole Glennon, and Jennifer Bees. All are expected to provide big contributions this season.
After earning National Collegiate Swimmer of the Week honors for her performance in the Ephs win over Division 1 Boston College, Nicholson earned All-American honors in four events at NCAAs last year. In 2007-2008, she looks to build upon her success and continue to rack up points for this young Eph squad. Junior Courtney Asher, who was the only other Eph to receive All-American in an individual event, is also expected to make key contributions.
As for the class of ’11, eight swimmers enter their first season at Williams with the potential to make an impact early.
“The first year class has the potential to be a very good class for us,” said Kuster. “The class is eight strong and everyone has the ability to contribute right away. They provide us with the opportunity to have more success than we had last year.”
The Ephs now look to build upon the last year’s success when they open the season November 18th with a home meet against NESCAC rival Conn. College.
“All in all, we’re young but I think we have a good shot to be better than we were last year,” said Kuster.
