GARLAND, TX – The Colorado College women’s swimming and diving team arrives in Garland, Texas, this week with a clear objective: secure the program’s first-ever SCAC Tournament Championship title. Competition begins , and the Tigers are looking to build on a string of successes, having finished as runners-up in the past three SCAC Championships.
Head coach Jen Buffin believes this year’s team possesses the necessary ingredients for a championship run. “This team enters the SCAC Championships this week with a historic opportunity in front of them, as they compete for their first-ever conference team championship,” Buffin stated. “After a season defined by consistency, competitive growth, and belief in the process, this group is poised to put together its strongest performance.”
A key component of Colorado College’s championship aspirations is the stellar performance of junior Keller Pooley in the diving events. Pooley enters the competition as the defending 1-meter diving champion and has enjoyed a record-breaking season. Buffin highlighted Pooley’s achievements, noting, “Keller has put together one of the strongest seasons of her career. She has recorded multiple season-best performances, qualified for NCAA Regionals for the third time, and already broken a school record this season.” Pooley’s leadership extends beyond her individual success; she has also mentored freshman diver Hazel Ryden, contributing to the program’s overall development on the boards.
The Tigers’ strength isn’t limited to diving. Several swimmers currently hold the top times in their respective events within the SCAC this season. Junior Isabella Cole leads the conference in both the 100 and 200 breaststroke. Fellow junior Alyssa Tunggal tops the standings in the 100 and 200 butterfly. Sophomore Julia Cox is the fastest in the 100 and 200 freestyle, while freshmen Annie Engstrom (500 and 1650 freestyle) and Livi Woolery (100 backstroke and 100 IM) also boast the fastest times in their events. Sophomore Kylie Spalt holds the top time in the 200 backstroke.
Buffin emphasized the team’s consistent performance throughout the season and their ability to race strategically. “This group has been incredibly consistent all season, and they understand how to race for the team,” she said. The team will also rely on the leadership of seniors Sarah Buchman and Megan Simonson. Buffin believes their experience will be crucial, particularly in the sprint events and on the relay teams. “Sarah and Megan have been consistent all year in the sprint events, they’re looking to finish their careers at SCACs with personal bests and make big contributions on relays, which will be a major focus, with multiple relays capable of producing season-best performances and contending for school records and NCAA qualifying standards.”
Relays are expected to be a significant factor in determining the championship outcome. Buffin’s comments suggest a strategic focus on maximizing relay performance, aiming for not only season-best times but also potential school records and NCAA qualifying standards. This indicates a well-rounded approach, recognizing the importance of both individual brilliance and collective effort.
The SCAC Championships will kick off on with the 200 medley and 800 freestyle relays. The four-day event will test the depth and resilience of the Colorado College team as they pursue their historic first SCAC title. The Tigers’ consistent performance throughout the season, coupled with the leadership of their seniors and the individual brilliance of swimmers like Cole, Tunggal, Cox, Engstrom, and Woolery, positions them as strong contenders. Pooley’s dominance in diving adds another layer of potential success.
Colorado College’s pursuit of the championship isn’t just about winning a title; it’s about continuing a trajectory of growth and establishing a legacy within the SCAC. The team’s focus on consistency, strategic racing, and team unity, as highlighted by Coach Buffin, suggests a program built for sustained success. The coming days in Garland will reveal whether this is the year the Tigers finally reach the summit of SCAC swimming and diving.
