UConn Swim and Dive (2-2) lost a nail-biting matchup in a clash of Huskies against Northeastern (3-1) on Saturday, falling just short with a final score of 149-151. The meet wrapped up Connecticut’s three-match road trip where they went 1-2 in that span.
Connecticut opened the competition strong with impressive diving performances. Senior Julia Pioso secured victory in the 3-meter dive, while junior Darah Ostrom took third place. Pioso also delivered third place in the one-meter dive, while sophomore Kate Cooper took second and Northeastern senior Kiki Murphy finished first.
UConn’s freshmen made a significant impact across various events. Sydney Perkins shined in the breaststroke events, winning both 100 and 200-meter races. Fellow freshman Jessica Sheng also had a strong showing, claiming first in the 200-yard freestyle and narrowly taking second in the 100-yard freestyle.
Other notable performances from Connecticut came from their upperclassmen. Senior captain Maggie Donlevy continues to impress, once again capturing first in the 100-yard backstroke. Sophomore Olivia Herbert was equally impressive, winning first the 200-yard butterfly, while freshman Julia Fondersmith narrowly finished second.
Northeastern, however, proved to be a tough opponent with standout performances of their own. May Bradburn was a dominant force, securing victories in four events: the 200-yard medley relay, 50-yard freestyle, 100-yard fly, and 400-yard free relay. Graduate student Emily Gjertsen further strengthened Northeastern’s score with victories in the 1000-yard and 500-yard freestyle.
The meet remained fiercely competitive throughout, with the score ultimately coming down to the final event: the 400-meter freestyle relay. Northeastern’s squad secured first, sealing their victory in a thrilling finish.
UConn will look to bounce back quickly as they gear up for their next meet in Storrs, where they will host the University of Rhode Island. Finally returning home after a long stretch, the Huskies hope to build momentum for the season going forward.