By Taylor Kincherlow / Asst. Sports Editor
By Taylor Kincherlow / Asst. Sports Editor
Gaining a win wasn’t easy against the 2010 state champions Orange Coast College at the debut of their new aquatic center.
RCC came up on top as they splashed their competitors away beneath them.
A brand new aquatic center that was christened on March 4, was more than enough motivation to get the Tigers going.
At the end of the day, it all came down to diving; and the supporters following them helped as Riverside sophomore Amy Heitman (Martin Luther King High School) led the way to victory.
Defeating Orange Coast 154-142 surely put a smile on Coach Dave Almquist’s face. Diving head first into his home debut meet was a chilling but rewarding experience.
Feeling like the underdogs in this competition, he took his team and rose from the ashes into sweet, delectable light. Coach Almquist did have a goal, and that was to have his team swim as best as they can.
Quite humorous was Almquist, stating that in order to swim well himself and his Tigers needed a challenge and that’s what they got.
Outstanding hard work was brought to the table as the Tigers let out a giant roar, recording their fastest times in nine events and both relays. Five women showed that they were a force to be reckoned with.
Once again sophomore Ashley Antonissen (King High School) displayed excellent skill winning the 50-meter fly (27.49) and also finishing second in the 50-meter free (24.87). Placing second in the 50-meter breaststroke with a time of 33.39 was sophomore Chelsea Harrod (Murrieta High School), which gave the audience something to cheer about.
Finishing with a season best thus time 33.01 was freshman Danielle Pedorso (Palm Springs High School). Excited about the getting into the water was sophomore Katie Hardin (Yucaipa High School), who was the Tigers only lone double-winner finishing first in the 50 back (30.60) and the 200 IM (2.22.46).
Almost taking first but placing second against Katie Hardin with a time of 30.67 in the 50 back event was sophomore Kristin Koehler.
Many fall but these Tigers showed their strength and enough skill to pursue to the next level.
Having 15 years of quality experience and a respect for the opposition, is what Coach Almquist wants from his team and from himself. He feels the need to always put his best foot forward against the competition as well as having a level of respect.
Building fundamental characteristics such as respect and determination is what is key. Riverside’s next challenge will come from the Chaffey Invitational hosted in Rancho Cucamonga next week.
