USD swimmers dive into 2012 season at UND

The University of South Dakota swimming and diving team’s season is underway as the Coyotes head up to Grand Forks for a dual meet against the University of North Dakota on Oct. 20.

USD enters the 2012-13 season with 24 first-years on the men’s and women’s roster.

However, despite the team’s lack of experience, head coach Jason Mahowald said he  believes the team will be able to perform well.

“We are a very young team, and with that comes a lot of trying to figure out the little things,” Mahowald said. “We have some great leadership from the upperclassmen and we are hoping that will help drive the team.”

Senior Cody Horton is one of the few upperclassmen on the team and said he believes that it is important for the upperclassmen to lead by example in order for the team to reach its full potential.

“We want (underclassmen) to be prepared so they are comfortable when it’s time for our first meet,” said Horton.

Anticipation for the first meet is running high among both the men’s and women’s teams.

Senior Kaitlyn Jefferson said the team is ready for the season to be underway.

“Everyone is really excited to get out there and compete,” Jefferson said. “It will be fun to see the new talent perform. North Dakota is a tough team, but I think if we give it everything we have then the results will come.”

Following the meet against UND, the team will travel to Ames for a double dual against Iowa State and Nebraska on Oct. 26.