The women’s swimming and diving teams are excelling two months into the season.

The women’s team is currently ranked 17th in the College Swimming Coaches Association of America Division III Poll. The team was previously ranked 24th in the CSCAA DIII Preseason Poll.

In the Central Region, the women’s team ranks 4th out of 10, with Hope College and Albion College ranked 9th and 10th, respectively. The women’s team is the only MIAA school to be ranked in the top 25.

Look no further than their last few outings to see why Calvin is getting national recognition. The women’s team dominated the Calvin Quad two weeks ago, taking first place by 294 points with a final tally of 1,155 points over two days. Albion came in second with 861 points.

Several first place and top three finishes from the team propelled them ahead on the first day of competition—it was a lead they would not relinquish.

Individual victories as well as team relays were at hand for the women’s team at last weekend’s dual meet against Wheaton College as well.

The women’s team defeated Wheaton 176-86. First-year Hannah Chao showed up winning the 100 yard backstroke, 200 yard backstroke and 200 IM. Abby VanHarn continues to excel for Calvin, winning three events, the 50 freestyle, 100 freestyle and 200 freestyle.

VanHarn was named the MIAA Women’s Swimmer of the Week on Nov. 6 for her efforts at Calvin Quad. Fellow senior Sarah Bradley—who won the 1-meter and 3-meter diving events at Calvin Quad—was named the MIAA Women’s Diver of the Week Nov. 6 as well. Bradley was awarded the honor for the second time this year, and VanHarn for the 6th time in her career.

After their performance against Wheaton, the team may see themselves receiving individual honors once more.

Head coach Dan Gelderloos hoped for his team to compete with “focus” and “enthusiasm” while also being supportive of each other.

“I thought we were able to execute all three of those goals within the meet,” said Gelderloos.

Calvin will travel stay at home for a dual meet against Wayne State University this Friday at 5:00 p.m. They face Olivet College the next day at 1:00 p.m.

Quotes courtesy Calvin Sports Information