EVANSTON, Ill. – Northwestern Swiming and Diving will host Miami Ohio this weekend at Norris Aquatics Center in a non-conference matchup as both teams continue their early-season preparations. The meet will serve as an important tune-up for the Wildcats ahead of the Big Ten schedule.
Diving into a new season ?????
It all starts tomorrow… pic.twitter.com/XkSvJYvACh
— NorthwesternSwimDive (@NUSwimDive) October 11, 2024
The Wildcats will look to capitalize on their home advantage as they welcome a Miami (Ohio) team that recently fell to Notre Dame 180-82 on October 11. Northwestern’s roster features a mix of returning standouts and newcomers expected to make an immediate impact.
Graduate transfer Nikki Venema will highlight Northwestern’s swimming contingent. Venema, who arrived from Princeton, is a 13-time Ivy League champion, with top performances in the freestyle and butterfly events. She brings significant experience to Northwestern’s squad, making her a key athlete to watch throughout the season.
In diving, freshman Isabella Chen will make her debut for the Wildcats. Chen, the 2023 Junior National Champion in the 3-meter dive and a bronze medalist at the 2023 Junior Pan American Championships, is expected to contribute right away. Sophomore Adam Cohen, a Big Ten Diver to Watch, will also lead the way for Northwestern’s diving team. Cohen’s highlights include a 322.95 score in the 1-meter dive against Wisconsin last season.
Freshman Joshua Staples, a highly-touted recruit from Australia, will make his collegiate debut. Staples comes to Northwestern with an impressive international resume, having won multiple gold medals at the 2022 Junior Pan Pacific Championships. His performances in the distance freestyle events will be crucial to the Wildcats’ success this season.
Additionally, David Gerchik, who competed at the 2024 Olympics, will add depth in the backstroke and individual medley events. Gerchik placed third in the 200 backstroke at last year’s Big Ten Championships and will look to build on his success this season.
This weekend’s meet provides an opportunity for Northwestern to assess its lineup as they prepare for the competitive Big Ten season ahead.
The meet is set for 11:00 A.M. CT at Norris Aquatics Center.
