THE NEWCOMERS


"Although the total number of recruits is not as significant as in previous years," said head coach Jim Bolster about this year's freshman class, "The quality appears to be exceptionally high. We only brought in five freshmen but three of them are potential top five scorers at Easterns. Never in my tenure here have we had this kind of talent. If we can continue to combine this level of talent with an increase in numbers we should be in great shape to compete for another league title," Bolster added.

The Lions in particular welcome the talents of three All-Americas: diver Mark Fichera, backstroker Matt Schultz and sprint freestyler Joe Zdrilic.

Fichera (West Hartford, CT) is the reigning Connecticut State Champion and one of the top age group divers on the east coast. "He should have an immediate impact on our diving program," said diving coach Gordon Spencer. "He has the ability to be an Eastern finalist in his first year."

Not far behind Fichera in terms of status as a state champion, is backstroker Matt Schultz (N. Bedford, IN). Schultz was a two-time runnerup in '97 at the Indiana High School meet. He finished second in the 100 backstroke with a time of 50.01 and second in the 100 freestyle with a time of 46.07.

"We are very excited to have Matt with us," stated Bolster. "He enters with a time that is already faster than our varsity record and we think that he can develop even further." Faster is a good word to describe the likes of sprinter Joe Zdirdic (Richmond Hills, OH). He enters Columbia as the fastest freshman ever.

"His 20.7 50 freestyle at last year's Junior National meet puts him well within reach of our varsity record of 20.38 and he should be able to score some big points at our championship meets," noted Bolster.

Two more talented newcomers arrive on the scene as well. Dane Wirtz (Kelso, WA) and Ian Fisher ( Orinda, CA) are expected to make considerable contributions in the middle distance free events. Wirtz will swim primarily the 100 and 200 freestyle and Fisher will handle the 200 and 500 races. Both have good experience at the high school level.

"Although their list of accomplishments may not be as impressive as some of the other freshmen these two have much room for improvement," said Bolster. Both Dane and Ian come from limited swimming backgrounds and neither really had the opportunity to compete their senior years. "We just don't know how good they will be," noted Bolster. "But I am glad we will have the chance to work with them to find out."

The 1997-98 Lions will be looking to improve upon last year's difficult season. The team retains much of its nucleus and will therefore be looking to the class of 2001 to make the difference. "We have never had this kind of talent in one recruiting class. If we can stay healthy and work hard I am quite confident we can have a tremendous year," stated Bolster. "I look forward to the challenges of excellence this team presents and the fun and excitement we will generate in the process. 1997-98 will be a great year for Columbia swimming."