STANFORD, Calif. – The Stanford women’s swimming and diving team took 11 out of 14 events on its way to a 138-100 win over San Jose State in Thursday’s season opener at Avery Aquatic Center. Senior Maya DiRado led the Cardinal with a pair of victories in the 100 fly (55.88) and 1,000 free (10:07.36).
“It’s nice to be back and racing. We certainly entered the meet with excitement for the season,” said head coach Greg Meehan. “This is a really good group that we have. I think there are still a lot of unknowns about this group, but we’re certainly excited to get back after it.”
The 200-meter medley relay squad, consisting of Maddy Schaefer, Katie Olsen, Nicole Stafford and Haley Sims, kicked off the meet with a win in 1:43.96 and the Cardinal followed with victories in the next six events from six different swimmers.
Included in the run of seven straight race wins was freshman Lia Neal’s first collegiate win. Her 1:52.74 in the 200 free was the Cardinal’s first rookie win of the year and was later followed by a victory from fellow newcomer Tara Halsted in the 200 backstroke (2:01.74).
“It’s always interesting watching freshmen race for the first time because they are trying so hard to show you how good they are,” noted Meehan. “Sometimes they have to slow things down a little bit to learn and get back. I think our freshmen class is a little better than most people think and I’m certainly excited about that. We are more worried about the details right now, not as much as the times.”
The senior class also played a big part in Stanford’s start, as the group put together four wins in the meet’s 12 individual events. DiRado accounted for a pair, while Felicia Lee (500 free, 4:59.13) and Andie Taylor (200 fly, 2:03.43) picked up first-place showings.
“I think our seniors did a nice job. They have the experience, they know what the expectations are this time of year and I think they are doing a good job leading the group along.”
Annemarie Thayer (100 back, 56.85), Olsen (100 breast, 1:04.36) and Schaefer (50 free, 23.20) also won events.
Stanford returns to action Oct. 3 against Washington State. The dual meet will be hosted at Avery Aquatic Center.
