TCU’s swimming and diving team will compete in its first big meet of the season, the Texas Invitational, Thursday through Saturday in Austin.”This tournament really gives the kids a chance to swim in one of the fastest pools,” said head coach Richard Sybesma. “We really use this tournament as a chance to compete against some to the best teams in the country.”
Sybesma said about 30 teams will be at the invitational, including Southern California, which is one of the best.
“We really use this tournament from an individual aspect,” Sybesma said. “We really just want each swimmer and diver to do the best they can against strong competition.”
Junior swimmer Keleigh Wentworth, who will swim in three events, said she agrees that this invitational meet has great competitors.
“This tournament really is one of the toughest we compete in,” Wentworth said. “It really helps us prepare for conference which is at the end of February.”
Senior diver Kelly Seely, who has been named Mountain West Conference diver of the week three times this season, said she really enjoys competing in this tournament.
“Since this tournament is so competitive, it really requires a lot of preparation beforehand,” Seely said. “I just need to make sure that I am mentally and physically ready this weekend so I can give my best performance.”
The Frogs are only taking half of the swimming and diving team to the invitational this weekend, which is open to all eligible collegiate swimmers and divers, Sybesma said.
Sybesma said the invitational meet comes right before Winter Break, which requires the team to train on the side to get ready for the conference season.
“The break is a crucial time in the season for us, since we are a two-semester sport,” Sybesma said. “All of the kids train with their high school team over break in order to stay in shape.”
Senior Allan McCallum said he agrees that this meet’s timing is crucial.
“The invitational is great way to end before Christmas Break,” McCallum said. “It is a tough tournament that really prepares us for the rest of the season.
