In just four short years, Concordia-St. Paul’s (CSP) Swimming and Diving program has grown from its infancy into a competitive force within the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). Under the leadership of head coach Rachel Busch, now entering her fourth season at the helm, the team has seen significant improvements both in size and performance. As CSP heads into the 2024 season, it’s clear that the program is set on a trajectory of excellence.
Coach Rachel Busch joined CSP’s swimming and diving program when it was still in its formative stages. “I’m going into my fourth season here, and it’s been incredible to see how much the program has evolved,” she says. What started as a small team has steadily grown, and this fall, the roster will feature 24 women—19 swimmers and five divers.
“The team’s excitement for growth is contagious,” says Busch, reflecting on the positive culture that has developed. With the returners buying into this culture of hard work and unity, CSP has created an environment that’s welcoming for new members. This atmosphere of camaraderie and ambition has translated into success in the pool.
At the 2024 NSIC Championships, the team boasted a 80% rate of lifetime-best performances. Perhaps even more impressively, CSP sent its first-ever national qualifiers to the NCAA Championships. Farida Maher, a standout swimmer entering her senior year, qualified in the 200-yard freestyle and also competed in the 100, 500, and 1,000-yard freestyle events. Maher broke the NSIC record in the 200 Free and was named the NSIC’s co-Swimmer of the Year. Diver Caitlyn Greenwalt made it to the Black Tuesday round in both 1-meter and 3-meter diving events, while freshman Sophie Leo, who earned the NSIC Freshman of the Year title, achieved a B-cut in the 50-yard freestyle. These accomplishments, coupled with a jump in conference standings from 8th to 5th place, show the program’s upward momentum.
The team said goodbye to one of its founding members, Laura Vekony, who graduated last season. Vekony was a consistent point-scorer in the 200 Fly, 400 IM, and distance events like the 1,000 and 1,650 Free. “Laura’s presence will be missed,” says Busch, adding that Vekony’s dedication helped lay the foundation for where the program is today. Vekony’s graduation, however, leaves room for other swimmers to step up, and with a strong group of returners and incoming talent, CSP seems well-positioned to continue its growth.
Among the returning athletes expected to have a big impact are Maher, Greenwalt, and Leo, all of whom played crucial roles in CSP’s success last season. Alongside them, other notable contributors include Chloé Rihon, Charly Horn, Rebecca Hildebrand, and Marianna Perna. In the relays, athletes like Emma Granovsky, Giulia Cury, Savanna Honan, and Sierra Sherry also made significant contributions. Maher led the charge at the NSIC Championships, with two victories and two second-place finishes. Her leadership, combined with the enthusiasm of her teammates, bodes well for CSP’s continued rise in the rankings.
The future is bright for CSP, thanks to an incoming class that features nine swimmers and four divers. This diverse group includes Minnesota natives like Catherine Bittner, Reese Bjorklund (diver), Claire Briest, and others, as well as athletes from Wisconsin, North Dakota, Mexico, and Canada. “We’re excited about the potential of this group,” says Busch.
Each new athlete brings a unique set of skills and a fresh dynamic to the team, which aligns well with CSP’s program philosophy. “We’re all about growth—academically, athletically, spiritually, personally and relationally” she explains. “We’re looking for women who want to thrive in an environment that values hard work, accountability, encouragement, and fun.”
Coach Busch emphasizes that the program’s culture is rooted in respect, gratitude, and family. “We work hard, we take accountability for our actions, and we encourage and forgive one another,” she says. CSP fosters an environment where athletes push themselves and their teammates while having fun.
A unique aspect of the program is its commitment to mental growth, with athletes listening to the “Mental Performance Daily” podcast during dynamic warm-ups. This focus on the mental side of competition sets CSP apart from other programs. “If you’re going to work hard, you might as well have fun doing it,” says Busch.
The 2024 season kicks off with Navy vs. Gold week, a signature tradition at CSP that includes themed practices and competitions. The program’s home pool, the newest collegiate facility in Minnesota, will host practices and meets, offering an excellent training environment for both swimmers and divers.
Coach Busch sees the opportunity for athletes to contribute to the foundation of a new program as a unique and exciting challenge. “Team records are continually breaking, and we’re becoming a stronger presence in the NSIC,” she says. As the only NCAA Division II program in the Twin Cities, CSP offers a special blend of competitiveness and community, along with affordable tuition and competitive scholarships.
With the dedication of returning athletes, a talented group of newcomers, and a culture rooted in growth, Concordia-St. Paul’s Swimming & Diving team is well on its way to becoming a powerhouse in Division II.