SOUTH EUCLID – The Notre Dame swimming team's home opener was pretty successful by most team's standards. The women's team defeated West Virginia Wesleyan College 144-112, while the men lost, 125-119. (Results)

Head Coach Mark Dziak was pleased with his team's fast start. "Both the men and the women came out firing, winning the first three events: the 200 Medley Relay, the 1000 Freestyle and the 200 Freestyle. The men haven't won a relay yet this year, so to see them touch first was a great sign for the day."

While the men may have lost, there were many swimmers who performed exceptionally well in the home opener.

James Fittro finished first in the 1000-yard freestyle with a time of 10:16.32.

Tre Arbulu won the 200-yard freestyle (1:55.06) as well as the 500-yard freestyle (5:22.89).

Ata Yaya took first in the 50-yard freestyle in 28.67.  

Jeff Saltzgaber won both the 50 (22.78) and 100-yard (51.55) freestyle races.

The women dominated meet, winning 10-of-the-14 events they competed in. Leading the way were first place finishes by:

Kelsi Turk, 1000-yard freestyle (11:14.19), 500-yard freestyle (5:37.97).

Jessie Drogemuller, 200-yard freestyle (2:05.52).

Sarah Reichman, 50-yard backstroke (28.57), 100-yard backstroke events (1:01.98).

Chelsea Law, 100-yard butterfly (1:01.40) and the 100-yard IM (1:03.44).

Raquel Loustau 50-yard freestyle (25.96).

Head coach Mark Dziak was pleased with both of his team's effort: "It was great to get a victory at home on the women's side and to be oh-so-close with the men. We really appreciate everyone who came out to see us swim. Wesleyan is a strong team. Both of our teams responded well to the level of competition and while the men fell in a close one, I am pleased at where we are at. I'm looking forward to next week at the IUP Invitational to see how we perform in a 3-day championship setting."

Coach Dziak also added, "I want to give a special mention to John Booth, Vanja Kopilas, and Dylan Dykes, who have all been playing water polo. They each had great swims, helping to contribute to the men's team. We hope to continue to rely on their services throughout the season and see what they can do in a team setting."