As the Ashland University swimming and diving team’s season comes to an end, they stand in fourth place in the GLIAC conference and 38th place in Division II.

On February 20, both teams competed in the GLIAC Championships and 50 personal best swims were achieved during the meet.

The AU men’s team finished the meet in fifth place overall with a team score of 283, while the women finished sixth overall with a team score of 247.

“I am unbelievably proud of this team and how far we have come this season.” Sophomore swimmer Tara Stevens said, “we work extremely hard throughout the season not only to become better but to work better together. I could not have asked for a better end to this year with this team.”

Stevens swims distance and middle distance free, along with individual medley. She registered three personal best times and broke one of the oldest school records with a time of 5:05.97 in 500 meter freestyle.

“The regular season was definitely a struggle when I look back at my times,” Stevens said, “although, I kept working hard hoping that it would pay off and it did more than I ever thought it would have.”

Head coach Ron Allen is currently in his third year here at Ashland University and credits the programs success to a change of training methods occurring in the beginning of the season.

“The newer style of training is the biggest change this season,” Allen said, “having Dr. Ernie Maglischo out for a clinic at the beginning of the season made a huge difference,”

In the 1,650 freestyle, sophomore Tara Stevens clocked in at 17:50.19 to finish in 12th place. Stevens’ success came with growing as a college athlete, she learned how to ask for help when need and make the most out of her career.

“ I have learned that life is what you make it and you have to learn to roll with the punches. Also, that if you want to do something that you set your mind to, it is possible,” Stevens said.

After a strong finish, Stevens sees a bright future for the swimming and diving team, possibly even a birth as a national qualifier.

“I am personally excited to challenge myself to get to go to nationals, I want to challenge my teammates to get there with me as well. I’m also hoping to set a couple of new records, and I’m most excited to continue to compete and represent the eagles,” Stevens said.