The Milwaukee women’s swimming and diving team marked a successful start to their season by defeating IU Indianapolis at Klotsche Natatorium on Saturday. The Panthers secured a decisive victory with a score of 213-84 in their first dual meet.
The team achieved 11 individual wins, highlighted by standout performances from Janelle Schulz and Maddi Hayashi, each winning two events. Head coach Kyle Clements praised the competitive spirit of IU Indianapolis, stating, “They are a very fast team, and they pushed us to be the best that we could be today.”
Milwaukee began strong with top finishes in the 200 medley relay and concluded the meet by winning the 200 freestyle relay. Notable performances included Mara Freeman’s win in the 100 backstroke, followed closely by teammates Skylar Ruggles and Elli Moss. Ruggles also claimed victory in the 200 backstroke.
Gabrielle LePine dominated the 100 breaststroke with a significant lead over her competitors, while Nadia Switalski took first place in the 200 breaststroke. In butterfly events, Maddi Hayashi excelled in both the 200 and 100 distances, closely followed by Natalie DiProspero.
Janelle Schulz emerged victorious in both the 50 and 100 freestyle races, demonstrating impressive speed alongside teammates Carly Plate and Christiana Brooks. Erika Thomas added another win for Milwaukee in the 200 individual medley.
In diving events, Julie Rebek topped the scores on the 3m board, while Therese Missiaen led on the 1m dive.
Coach Clements expressed optimism about future improvements: “Our best today is not what our best will become midseason and Horizon League. We have a long way to go and a lot of work to do.”
Looking ahead, Milwaukee will travel to Illinois for upcoming meets against UIC on November 1st and Wheaton (Ill.) on November 2nd.
