The SCAD swimming team delivered a remarkable performance at the Queens Fall Frenzy held in Charlotte, N.C., from November 21-24, 2024. The event showcased the talent and determination of SCAD swimmers, with several athletes achieving qualifying times for national competitions and breaking school and national records. 

  

Notable Performances 

Distance Events 

Kevin Keil had an outstanding meet, particularly in the 500 Yard Freestyle, where he clinched second place with a time of 4:25.48, qualifying automatically for the NAIA Championships. Zoltan Tompos and Ryan Lipnick also shone in this event, recording times of 4:26.19 and 4:41.34, respectively, both achieving B Qualifier standards. 

  

In the 1650 Yard Freestyle, Keil continued his dominance, finishing first with a time of 15:27.69, marking another NAIA National Qualifier performance. Sky Marjamaa also excelled in the women's version of the event, completing it in 17:39.67, earning a B Qualifier time. 

  

Individual Medley and Freestyle 

Leah Givens impressed in the 200 Yard Individual Medley with a time of 2:08.26, achieving a B Qualifier standard. Dario Rukavina followed suit in the men's IM, finishing with a time of 1:53.24, also a B Qualifier.  

The sprinters were not to be outdone. Jan Gastal showcased his speed in the 50 Yard Freestyle, clocking in at 20.83 for a B Qualifier time. He continued to impress in the 100 Yard Freestyle, finishing in 44.65, with Zoli Tompos closely behind at 44.84, both securing B Qualifier times. 

  

Butterfly and Breaststroke 

In the 100 Yard Butterfly, Bo Kasten led the way for SCAD with a time of 49.24, followed by teammate Jake Litchfield at 50.40, both achieving B Qualifier standards. The breaststroke events were highlighted by Nikki Hahn, who not only qualified for the NAIA Nationals with a time of 1:02.68 in the 100 Yard Breaststroke but also had a strong showing in the 200 Yard Breaststroke at 2:18.29, again meeting B Qualifier standards. 

  

Backstroke Highlights 

Dario Rukavina continued his impressive form in backstroke events, posting a time of 50.77 in the 100 Yard Backstroke and 1:50.54 in the 200 Yard Backstroke, both achieving B Qualifier times. Romane Cayla also made her mark, finishing the 100 Yard Backstroke in 58.13. 

  

Record Breaking Times 

The meet was historic for SCAD, particularly for Kevin Keil, who not only won the 400 Yard IM with a stellar time of 3:49.32 but also set a new school and NAIA record. Additionally, Keil's performance in the 200 Yard Breaststroke at 1:58.71 further solidified his status as a standout athlete, achieving another NAIA National Qualifier time. 

What's Next? The Bees will compete at Lenoir-Rhyne University on January 10th and 11th.