DUBUQUE, Iowa – The Pioneers delivered a dominant performance in dual action against Loras College, earning a 128–64 win on the women's side and battling to a close 95–73 finish on the men's side, highlighted by strong relay showings and individual depth.
Men's
The Carroll men's swimming and diving team fought hard in Saturday's dual meet, showcasing versatility and depth across all events. The Pioneers opened the meet with a runner-up finish in the 200 Medley Relay (1:52.40), with strong legs from Thomas Rynne, Eli Griggs LeRoux, Ben Miles, and Mannon Stern.
Distance specialist Mannon Stern set the tone in the 1000 freestyle, placing second in 12:12.17 and later contributing in the 200 Medley and 200 Free Relays. Ben Miles was a standout performer, finishing second in the 200 free (2:05.65) and winning the 100 breaststroke (1:10.12). Sprint power came from Jonah Lotegeluaki, who finished second in both the 50 free (23.72) and 100 free (53.62), while Gavin Buechel added a key victory in the 100 fly (58.83) and a runner-up finish in the 500 free (5:40.96).
Additional highlights included Thomas Rynne leading the backstroke group with a second-place finish in the 100 back (59.34), and Dawson Schultz winning the 1-meter diving (164.65). Carroll closed the meet with a win in the 200 Free Relay (1:39.24), combining strong relay performances with individual excellence.
Women's
The Carroll women's team delivered an impressive 128–64 victory over Loras, fueled by relay dominance and standout individual swims. The Pioneers opened the meet with a win in the 200 Medley Relay (2:07.67) and closed strong with a first-place finish in the 200 Free Relay (1:52.81), anchored by Natalie Oldenburg and Kendal Richard.
Distance events were a major strength, as Erin Fixen won the 1000 free in 12:04.67 and Carigan Tabor placed second (12:21.98). Kendal Richard claimed the 200 free (2:14.02), with Alexandria Ostopowicz and Kelaney Kumlien going 2–3. Sprint depth showed in the 50 free, where Cenia Stefonek (27.64) led Carroll's top finishers.
In the strokes, Cenia Stefonek placed second in the 100 fly (1:11.34), and Natalie Oldenburg led the backstroke group with a win in the 100 back (1:07.97). Carroll also excelled in the 200 IM, with Grace Nelson finishing second. Breaststroke strength came from Carigan Tabor and Skyler Sanderson, who placed second and third in the 100 breast.
On the boards, Alexandria Ostopowicz (154.45) and Nevaeh Clayton (133.45) finished 1–2 in 1-meter diving.
With multiple event sweeps and strong relay finishes, Carroll showcased depth and balance, setting a high standard for the remainder of the season. The Pioneers' next opportunity comes next Saturday as both teams head to Appleton, WI to take on Lawrence in a dual meet.
