Solid Veterans Combine with Talented Newcomers to Give Cards a Strong Foundation for 2008-09
Wesleyan men's swimming and diving returns 10 lettermen from last year's squad, nine of whom logged a top-16 finish during the NESCAC Championships. Team co-captains Dave Wilkinson '09 (main photo) and Chris Becker '09 (photo insert upper right) were among that group led by Wilkinson's all-NESCAC third-place finish in the one-meter dive.
Becker had strong showings in both freestyle and backstroke events. Mike Bailey '11 had the team's best effort in the pool with three seventh-place showings (200 IM, 400 IM and 200 breast). Dana Drost '11 was eighth in the 200 IM and 10th in the 200 fly. Others with outstanding efforts for the Cardinals include Dan Storms '10, Kevin McKeown '11, Ryan Beck '10, Darren Thomason '11 and diver J.P. Valette '10. Becker and Storms were part of Wesleyan's team-record-setting 400 free relay, which placed fourth.
With the influx of nine newcomers, Wesleyan should have talent and depth in every event when the season unfolds Sat., Nov. 22 at Trinity as the Cards take on both the host and Bates. After that, the team is back on the road Mon., Nov. 24 with a trip to Amherst.
