Shreveport, LA – The Hendrix Men's and Women's Swimming and Diving teams opened up their season in a dual match at Centenary College Thursday afternoon.  The women's team, led by freshman Veronica Ibanez swam away with the victory while the men's team, led by sophomore Sam Melhorn, finished just behind Centenary in overall team points. 

On the women's side Bree Lyerly, Journey Eubank, Sydney Lacey, and Laura Jones took first in the 200 medley relay, with a time of 2:03:00.

Ibanez finished first in the 100 butterfly, clocking a time of 1:07:66 and placed second in the 200 freestyle with a time of 2:14:12. Jordan Carl also scored in the event, claiming third 2:16:79.

"I was really happy with our first meet of the year," said Head Coach Marty Wahle. "Hats off to our women for a great win! Many of our first year swimmers were around best times and upperclassmen looked stronger in the water than this time last year. I am excited to see their continued progress throughout the season."

For the men, Melhorn captured the first place spot in the 200 IM by more than five seconds with a time of 2:05:65 while also finishing first in the 100 breaststroke. 

Brian Berns and Lyle Alford came in first and second respectively in the 100 backstroke with times of 58:00 and 58:23.

"The men had a solid meet against a much improved Centenary squad," said Coach Wahle. "On the men's side we won many races, went 1/2 in the 100 backstroke, but Centenary had too much depth to keep up with. I think with more training and having another meet in front of us it would have been a much closer meet. We are excited to have them at our meet in December for a re-match."

The men and women's swimming and diving team will prepare for their inter-squad meet today, Friday October 6.