IUP Swim Teams Shine at Ralph Johnson Invitational: Outstanding Results from Indiana University of Pennsylvania Athletics

Indiana, Pa. – The IUP swimming and diving teams shone at the Ralph Johnson Invitational, showcasing impressive performances. Both men’s and women’s teams secured several first-place finishes but finished just behind PennWest Clarion, with scores of 120-103 for women and 116-108 for men.

In the women’s events, junior Kasha Stokes stood out, winning the 100-yard backstroke in 57.95 seconds, achieving a PSAC qualifying time. Tina Cudina was on fire as well, claiming victories in both the 50 free (24.03) and 100 free (52.53), also meeting the PSAC benchmarks. Sophomore Gem Crittenden added to the success, winning the 200-yard individual medley (2:10.36) and the 100-yard butterfly (57.89).

The women’s 200-yard medley relay team, featuring Stokes, Cudina, Crittenden, and Kaleese Jallow, opened the meet with a solid win in 1:47.75, outpacing Clarion’s best relay by over three seconds.

On the men’s side, Ty Uhlig led the way, winning the 200 free (1:44.93) and 500 free (4:49.32), both well within the PSAC requirements. Trent Powell clinched the 100 fly with a time of 52.16. Stephen Goff won the 100 free in 48.46 and took second in the 50 free (21.89). The men’s 200 free relay team of Nick Vaow, Fadi Abdelshahid, Rey Nunez, and Powell finished first with a time of 1:25.89.

In diving, Jeremiah Laslavic excelled, winning the men’s 3-meter event with a score of 313.28 points, while Nick Roddy secured fifth on the 1-meter board.

The Crimson Hawks will compete again next weekend in a dual meet against Bloomsburg.

This event not only showcased talent but also highlighted the growing competitiveness of IUP’s swimming program. Recent surveys indicate a rising interest in collegiate swimming, especially as programs like IUP’s continue to gain visibility. In fact, participation in college swimming has seen a boost, reflecting a broader trend in fitness and health awareness among students.

For more on swimming trends and statistics, check out the College Swimming Coaches Association of America.

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