In the final home meet of the year, the University of Arizona’s men’s and women’s swim and dive teams swept the University of Minnesota. Despite a back-and-forth battle between the two programs, both Wildcat teams pulled ahead, securing narrow wins.

The men finished their competition with a final score of 162 against No. 24 ranked Minnesota’s 147 points. The women finished their competition with a final score of 156 over the Golden Gophers’ 144.

The morning began with chilly temperatures as seniors were honored with flowers along with some being accompanied by parents. While there was fun before competition, the Wildcats knew that they had to bring a strong effort to beat the Golden Gophers.

On the men’s side, Ralph Daleiden and Haakon Naughton both gave two first place performances. Daleiden earned first in the 100-yard and 200-yard freestyle races. Naughton also secured his two first place finishes in the 100-yard and 200-yard freestyle races.

On the women’s side, Eleni Gewalt and Kayman Neal were two of the most impressive on the team. Gewalt landed Arizona 31 points with two first place finishes in the 100y and 200y breaststroke. Neal stood out, breaking Arizona’s best time for the 200y backstroke (1:56.58) and was only .03 seconds away from securing herself a NCAA “B” Cut time.

At a certain point in the meet, the estimated men’s scores were tied at 132-132, while the women’s team trailed multiple points behind Minnesota. The outcome of the relays played a huge factor in determining the divers’ final score. 

The divers were able to secure the win at the end of the day. Men’s diver Gage Dubois and women’s diver Brooke Earley took first place in their respective 1-meter dives. Dubois and Earley also placed on the podium for the respective 3m dives.

Looking ahead

The Wildcats’ next meet will be hosted by the school up north. Arizona will be facing ASU on Saturday, Feb 8 at noon in Tempe. This will be the Wildcats’ second to last meet before competitors are announced for the Big 12 championship.

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