NORTHFIELD, Minn. – The St. Olaf College men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams opened their seasons by competing at the Cows, Colleges, and Contentment Classic on Saturday at Northfield Middle School and Carleton College’s Thorpe Pool.
Due to an issue with the timing system at Northfield Middle School, official times were not recorded for the swimming portion of the meet. Teams kept hand times, which are not official by the NCAA’s standards. Meanwhile, six Ole women’s divers competed in the one-meter and three-meter dives at Thorpe Pool.
First year Alayna McCormick was St. Olaf’s top finisher on both boards, placing fourth in the one-meter dive (375.85) and sixth in the three-meter dive (354.95). Senior Zibby Hanifl was right behind McCormick in both events, finishing fifth in the one-meter (368.00) and seventh in the three-meter (344.85). Sophomore Emma Haines took sixth (346.55) and eighth (328.05), respectively.
The Oles will head to St. Catherine University for their first Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) duals of the season on Saturday, Nov. 1, starting at 10 a.m. The women will simultaneously compete against St. Kate’s and the College of Saint Benedict, while the men will face Saint John’s University.
St. Olaf College, home to the Oles, is a small private liberal arts college located in beautiful Northfield, Minnesota. The St. Olaf Swim and Dive team, led by Head Coach Bob Hauck, competes DIII in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC). When it comes to recruiting, Hauck prioritizes attitude, work ethic, and accountability, seeking athletes who are goal-oriented and team-focused. “Our program’s culture is centered on family,” Hauck says. “It’s a welcoming, supportive environment that’s both encouraging and challenging.” This close-knit team culture, along with a rich history and supportive coaching staff, has helped to create a unique space where athletes not only compete at high levels but also form lifelong bonds. Hauck invites student-athletes who are excited for a rewarding college experience—where academics, swimming, and diving work in harmony. He looks for well-rounded individuals who are ready to contribute to St. Olaf’s long-standing tradition of excellence. “If you’re looking for a program with history, support, and the chance to develop into the best version of yourself, St. Olaf is the place to be,” he says.