East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University's swim and dive team is preparing to face Oakland University in a dual meet at Jones Natatorium on Thursday, November 21, at 4 p.m. The Eagles have won two of their last three meets and are aiming for another victory against the Golden Grizzlies.

The history between Eastern Michigan and Oakland dates back to numerous encounters, with the upcoming meet marking their 41st clash. Eastern holds a slight edge with a 21-18-1 record overall and a 13-8 advantage when competing at home. Their last meeting saw Eastern win narrowly, 155-145, on November 16, 2023.

A victory against Oakland would signify the Eagles' first 3-1 start since Head Coach Derek Perkins' inaugural season in 2019-20. That year, EMU achieved a notable dual meet record of 4-1 and secured top positions in various competitions.

In their most recent outing against Indiana State on November 9, Eastern was defeated but had standout performances from Azra Umut and Malia Maire. Freshman Umut set personal bests in both the 200y backstroke and the 100y backstroke events. Maire excelled in diving, winning the 3m dive with her season-best score.

Rebekah Knapp has been recognized as MAC Diver of the Week following her impressive performance against Cleveland State on October 18. She earned an NCAA Zone Diving Championships cut with a personal-best score in the event.

The Eagles opened their season strongly with an emphatic win over Cleveland State on October 18, which marked Coach Perkins' fourth successful season opener during his tenure.

Abby Szadorski also shone during this opening meet by securing victories in both breaststroke events and contributing to a relay win.

As they enter their sixth year under Coach Perkins, Eastern's program continues to build upon its past achievements while integrating new talent into its ranks. This year's team includes nine freshmen alongside returning letterwinners from last season.

Eastern Michigan will participate in nine regular-season meets before culminating at the MAC Championships next February through March across various states including Michigan, Ohio, New York Florida Washington among others

Tom Gimm joined as Head Diving Coach earlier this year bringing extensive experience having previously coached at Ohio University Moss Farms Diving where he achieved significant success

Looking ahead after facing off against Oakland Eagles will take break prepare compete Denison Invitational held Granville Ohio December

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