By Kate Joseph
Staff Writer

Simmons Swimming and Diving kicked off their 2013-2014 season by defeating the Westfield State University Owls on Saturday afternoon at the Holmes Sports Center.

The Sharks set a new school record in the 200 Medley Relay swum by Miriam Swisher, Shylee Stewart, Amy Davis, and Chloe Davis.

“The team really showed up to race,” said Head Coach Mindy Williams. “When the team set a new school record in the first event, I knew it was going to be a show.”

Kevyn Lee finished first in the 1000 Free, followed by Kara Silva who placed third for the Sharks.

Lee also took first place in the 500 Free by 10 seconds. Julie Nguyen followed with a close second.

In the 200 Free Simmons took the top three spots with Jen Collins taking first place, followed by Hillary Wong and Sarah Price.

Swisher also won the 50 Back, which set a new school and pool record, and the 100 Free. A. David dominated two races as well, placing first in both the 50 and 100 Fly.

Collins took first in the 50 Free with Joleigh Ferro in second place and Price in third.

C. Davis won the 100 Backstroke with a two second lead over the second place finisher.

Rachel Lagasse and Brittany Ballard competed in the diving portion of the competition. Lagasse placed third with 144.45 points while Ballard took fourth with 109.45.

“I think this season will be the start of a new era in Simmons swimming and diving,” said Coach Williams. “We have a really competitive team, and our roster numbers will help as well.”

The Sharks return on Saturday, Nov. 2, when they compete against Elms at Gordon College at 1 p.m.