The Fairfield University swimming and diving teams continued their impressive run with a decisive sweep over Monmouth University at the RecPlex pool, marking their second sweep of the season. The men’s team edged out Monmouth with a 154-140 score, while the women’s team captured a commanding 200.5-89.5 victory.
The Stags’ success was punctuated by standout performances from Jeffrey Vlass ‘25 and Ed Hunt ‘25, each setting pool records in their respective events. Vlass’s record-breaking 2:23.39 in the 200 breaststroke demonstrated his dominance and precision in a challenging stroke. Hunt followed with his mark in the 200 individual medley (IM), finishing in 2:07.41.
Fairfield’s divers built momentum early by capturing top finishes in three of the four diving events, providing the team with an initial points boost. Elizabeth Beaulieu ‘25 took first place in the women’s 1-meter dive with a score of 214.05, while Lily Tonole ‘27 secured the top spot in the 3-meter dive, earning 233.5 points. On the men’s side, Andrew Cataldo ‘27 swept both diving events, leading with scores of 236.85 in the 1-meter and 276.15 in the 3-meter.
In the relay events, Fairfield continued to shine. The women’s 400 medley relay team, composed of swimmers Erini Pappas ‘25, Tone Sandsjoe ‘27, Lara Kisakol ‘28, and Olivia Thompson ‘25, delivered an outstanding performance, securing the Stags’ sole relay victory with a time of 4:20.53.
Across individual races, the women’s team dominated, claiming first-place finishes in six events, while the men’s team added four, underscoring Fairfield’s competitive balance and deep roster. Three senior women led the charge with multiple wins each. Erin Hoyland ‘25 demonstrated her distance prowess, winning both the 200 freestyle (2:09.48) and 400 freestyle (4:32.42), helping Fairfield build momentum in mid-distance events. Pappas continued her strong showing in the backstroke, capturing the 100 backstroke (1:04.42) and 200 backstroke (2:20.75). Meanwhile, Thompson showcased her sprinting talent, securing first in both the 50 freestyle (27.21) and 100 freestyle (1:00.64), marking her second consecutive week of top finishes in these events.
Fairfield’s underclassmen played key roles, showcasing the team’s depth beyond its senior leadership. Cormac Rouse ‘28 and Jack Behm ‘28 bolstered the men’s team with victories in the 100 freestyle (52.56) and 200 backstroke (2:07.55), respectively. Ella Lepis ‘28 contributed an impressive win in the 800 freestyle, finishing in 9:38.00. Sandsjoe added to the women’s team’s points total with her victory in the 100 breaststroke (1:11.78), while Tim Regan ‘26 claimed an important win in the men’s 200 freestyle (1:55.39). Rounding out the individual wins, junior Allison Sposili ‘25 took first place in the women’s 200 IM with a time of 2:26.49.
The recent achievements of the Fairfield swimming and diving program speak to a culture of growth, focus, and teamwork. With strong leaders and emerging talent driving their performances, the team continues to build a foundation that bodes well for the rest of the season. These collective wins reflect a well-rounded, highly capable team that blends experienced senior athletes with promising underclassmen.
Both teams are set to travel to Marist College on Saturday where they will take on Marist and St. Bonaventure in a tri-meet. The Stags aim to extend their winning streak and continue honing their competitive edge as they progress through the season. Fairfield’s recent success is a testament to their hard work, and their momentum suggests a promising road ahead.
Leave a Reply