02/28/2008
Men's Swim and Dive Off to NEWMAC Championships

WORCESTER, MASS. 2/28/08  The Clark University men's swim and dive team will get their turn at the New England Women's and Mens Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) Championships this weekend at MIT.

Although the Cougars finished sixth for the second straight year last season, they increased their point total, set a pair of new school records, and garnered several all-time top-five finishes.

"Last year, we had our best year points-wise," said coach Paul E. Phillips. "We dont return this year with the same amount of depth, in terms of numbers, but the guys have all worked extremely hard and are ready to compete."

While Clark lacks the depth it had a year ago, the 2008 squad is sure to contend in a few events.

Junior Drew Jackson, who broke two school backstroke records last winter, will look to finish higher in the events, while juniors Mike Smith and Brian Walsh, both back from abroad this semester, will work to improve their times in breaststroke and distance races, respectively. Walshs 1,650-yard freestyle time of 17:19.58 at last year's NEWMAC meet was good for third all-time in Clark history.

Additionally, the Cougars welcome five newcomers to the NEWMAC stage.

"I'm excited to see how our freshman will compete in their first college championships," said Phillips.

The Cougar relay teams hope to continue their solid performances this weekend. Last years 800-yard freestyle relay team of Jackson, Walsh, Taylor Morono, and Smith placed fifth en route to Clarks second all-time fastest time (7:22.97).

The Coast Guard Academy Bears are the five-time NEWMAC reigning champions.