As St. Cloud State University’s swim and dive program prepares for another promising season, Head Coach Jeff Hegle is set to begin his 25th year leading the team. Over the past two and a half decades, Hegle has built a program that consistently ranks among the best in NCAA Division II, with both the men’s and women’s teams finishing in the top 25 in the nation for the last five consecutive years. The men’s team reached a program-best 13th-place finish, while the women’s team finished 17th.
Last season saw the graduation of key athletes, including the top breaststrokers from both the men’s and women’s teams. While these losses are significant, Coach Hegle remains confident in the depth of the current roster, stating, “We have individuals who will be able to step in and replace them.” The team’s strength lies in its ability to develop well-rounded athletes ready to rise to the occasion.
The upcoming season will see a large group of senior men—20 in total—leading the way, bringing a wealth of experience and past success to the team. Swimmers like Raf Hendriks, Emile Dost, Cade Rosenwald, Mason Beck, and Owen Teague are expected to be standouts in the pool, while divers Jimmy Nord and Dylan Apicello will continue to make waves on the diving boards.
For the women, top returning athletes include Meredith Bangs, Ruthie Lucht, Claire Salzer, Anna Reschko, Natalie Gneiser, and Kendall Gonzalez. The women’s diving team, led by Kailee Fossell and Christen Mayberry, is also positioned to have a strong season.
Coach Hegle is excited about the strength of this year’s recruiting class. Top breaststrokers Hallie Drossel from Melrose, MN, and Haydn Vein from Fargo, ND, will add depth to the breaststroke group. In addition, transfers Lucy Price, Lance Godard, Jaxon Bradburn, and Marcus Walker are expected to make an immediate impact, adding experience and versatility to the team.
Beyond physical talent, Coach Hegle emphasizes character and dedication in his recruiting process. “We look for people who work hard, are good people, do well in school, and understand the importance of a team being your family,” he explains. This holistic approach to athlete development has been integral to the program’s long-standing success.
The team culture at St. Cloud State revolves around four core principles: Excellence, Teamwork, Integrity, and Pride. These values are more than just words—they are the foundation of how the athletes train, compete, and support each other in and out of the pool.
One aspect that sets St. Cloud State’s program apart is its individualized approach to training. Every athlete receives a customized training plan that incorporates both their feedback and the coaching staff’s expertise. This tailored approach ensures each swimmer and diver is positioned to achieve their personal best.
As a highly competitive Division II program, St. Cloud State offers athletes the opportunity to compete at a national level while also pursuing academic and extracurricular goals. “Our athletes can compete at a high level but still take full advantage of quality academics, clubs, and professional organizations,” says Hegle. This balance between athletic achievement and personal development is something the program takes pride in, fostering well-rounded individuals ready for future success.
As Coach Jeff Hegle enters his 25th season, the St. Cloud State swim and dive program is set for continued excellence. With a blend of experienced veterans, promising new talent, and a culture built on integrity and teamwork, the future looks bright for the Huskies.