The Rowan Men’s and Women’s swimming and diving team lost their season opener versus New York University, however, there are many upsides and positives to learn from this tough squad. 

Although the Profs dropped their first meet against a nationally ranked NYU swimming program, Head Coach Elise Blaschke believes her team is on the right path heading into NJAC competition in one week. 

“We are in a much better position than I could have suspected. When looking into the results, although we did lose to a top nationally ranked program… I’m comparing them to the start of last year against NYU, and all of our returners improved from the time where we were last season, which is awesome,” Blaschke said.  

Of the many that showcased outstanding individual performances, freshman Jordan McChesney notably demonstrated her potential in just her first collegiate career meet. 

As McChesney’s freshman campaign kicked off this past Saturday, the Hillsborough native certainly impressed and outperformed the expectations set by her coaches.  

“It was exciting, the atmosphere was really good. The team came together, that’s what I enjoyed the most from the meet. Just having all the other swimmers lined up on the side of the pool and supporting each other,” McChesney said. 

McChesney finished in first place in both the 50 and 100 freestyles, with a time of 24.87 and 54.38 seconds, respectively. As a result of winning her races, she was awarded the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Women’s Swimming Rookie of the Week. 

Enjoying a scorching start to her early career, McChesney is just simply delighted her performances can contribute to the team’s success.   

“It’s been great. I just want to put it all out on the pool for my team, and to be able to do that for them is great. I’m happy I can help,” said McChesney. 

Saturday’s matchup against NYU served as a learning experience for the team, especially for the new incomers. 

“They learned how to overcome some level of nerves and turn it into excitement. Their experience racing NYU was to show them, in some regard, they are no different than the swimmers from that team,” Blaschke said. “When you have a lane, you have a chance. They saw they can stand up to the best of them.”

As NJAC play begins in one week, the team will remain confident and focus, to quickly get over the weekend’s defeat.

“When we compete in the NJAC, it’s a little bit different from NYU and other end of the year meets. I think we are going to learn a lot more about ourselves as we head into NJAC meets and see where we rack up against those members,” Blaschke said.   

Rowan’s swimming and diving team begin their NJAC title defense when they host Kean University on Nov. 7.

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