MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The West Virginia University swimming and diving teams kicked off their season at the Florida State University Invitational. Sophomore MJ Gilligan stood out by recording the seventh fastest time in the women’s 400-yard individual medley in the program’s history, finishing at 4:22.05.
The competition in Tallahassee saw the Mountaineers perform well. Senior Gabriela Martin began her last season with a bang, securing two top-three spots. She placed third in the women’s 200-yard freestyle (1:48.84) and third in the 100-yard individual medley (58.35). Redshirt senior Natasha Whittall also ranked third in the 100-yard backstroke with a time of 54.85.
On the men’s side, freshman Caden Oprandy made his mark with a third-place finish in the 200-yard breaststroke, clocking in at 2:00.53. The women’s team concluded the first day with a solid second place in the 100-yard freestyle relay, finishing at 42.32.
In diving, sophomore David Hatt, an Auburn transfer, impressed by winning the men’s 1-meter event with a score of 258.85 during his Mountaineer debut. Senior Abigail Sullivan led the women’s efforts on the 3-meter board, finishing sixth with 226.20 points.
Looking at team standings after the first day:
Men’s Team Results:
- Florida State – 185 points
- Purdue – 120 points
- West Virginia – 101 points
- Tampa – 80 points
Women’s Team Results:
- Florida State A Team – 175 points
- Rice – 130 points
- West Virginia – 101.5 points
- Florida State B Team – 82.5 points
The Mountaineers are set to compete again on Saturday at 10 a.m. ET, with events that include the 500-yard freestyle and the 100-yard medley relay.
Swimming and diving is a sport steeped in history and dedication. Did you know that the first Olympic swimming competition dates back to 1896? Since then, techniques and training methods have evolved, leading to better performances, much like what we’re witnessing with the Mountaineers today.
For more details on the team, check out their social media on X, Facebook, and Instagram.
