Athletes of the Week - Langley

Congratulations to Leah Knight, Ian Russiello and Marcus Card for being named athletes of the week for our meet against Langley.

Leah earned her recognition by dropping more than 3 seconds off her personal best in the 100 breaststroke. Her 500 free time was also right on her personal best from last season. Leah joined the team this season after moving from Alaska. The Last Frontier's loss is Madison's gain as Leah showed tonight.

The captains unanimously selected Marcus as athlete of the week because of his strong swims in the 100 back, 100 fly and 400 freestyle relay. Marcus swam a very strong lead-off leg in the 400 freestyle despite being inadvertently interfered with by a swimmer from Langley. His hard work this week and never-say-die attitude are exemplary for the rest of the team.

As a captain, Ian chose to honor Marcus's hard work. The coaching staff, however, did not want to let Ian's performance tonight be overlooked. Ian earned recognition because of his two tremendous swims in the 200 IM and 500 free. Ian's times in both events were the fastest he has ever logged in a duel meet. His performance tonight shows why he is a legitimate candidate for All-American honors this season.

Honorable mention recognition also goes to Grayson Campbell for breaking his own team record for diving tonight. It is the third year in a row that Grayson has broken the team record in the first week of the season. Rachel Hughes made her presence known during her first Madison meet by just barely missing a personal best in the 500 freestyle. Her strong work ethic and positive attitude demonstrate the kind of characteristics that make for success in life. Rachael Holp also had a great night in her events. Rachael's future with Madison is very bright, indeed!