October 1, 2009

WOMEN'S SWIMMING SLATED TO FINISH 4TH IN NORTHEAST CONFERENCE PRESEASON POLL

SMITHFIELD, R.I. - Following its first season competing at the Division I level, the Bulldog women's swim team, with seventh-year head coach Katie Cameron at the helm, is slated to finish 4th in the NEC, as voted on by conference coaches.

The Bulldogs, who start their season on Saturday, Oct. 17 at NEC opponent Wagner, finished fifth at last seasons' NEC championship meet. The team anticipates the arrival of seven freshmen who will join an experienced group that includes eight seniors among its 23 team members. Among them is Jessica Looney (Goffstown, N.H.), who was named Swimmer of the Meet at the 2008 New England Championships and finished fourth in the 200 backstroke (2:11.16) at the 2009 NEC meet. Junior Jill Squillante (Sayville, N.Y.) placed fourth in the 100 backstroke (1:01.04) at the same event.

The two-time defending champion, Central Connecticut State was voted to finish first with Wagner and Saint Francis (PA) picked second and third, respectively. Following the Bulldogs are Sacred Heart and Mount St. Mary's in fifth and sixth. St. Francis (N.Y.) rounds out the field of seven.  

After facing Wagner on Oct. 17, the women's swim team returns home to host the University of Maine on Friday, Oct. 23 at 5 p.m. in the Chace Athletic Center.