WASHINGTON, D.C. – The UMBC women's swimming and diving squad went stroke-for-stroke versus host American University and edged the Eagles to open the 2023-24 season on a high note.

"This is the most energy I've seen from our ladies at a UMBC dual meet since I've been here," said Head Coach Matt Donovan. "American is an impressive team and gave us a great challenge.  We fought every step of the way and didn't give an inch.  I am so proud of how we raced and dove all day.  This is exactly what we wanted to see to kick off the season." 

Senior Nyah Stahl led a balanced effort, winning both the 200 backstroke and 200 IM. But seven other Retrievers won events - three veterans and four newcomers – to lead the Retrievers to the narrow victory.  

The meet opened in style, as the opposing teams finished in a dead head for first place in the 200 yard medley relay.  

Two newcomers to Retriever Diving, junior Joella Mills and freshman Ember Stennett swept the boards for for the Retrievers. Mills took the 1-meter event with 229.80 points, while Stennett captured 3-meter board at 222.90 points.

In their UMBC debuts, juniors Bruna de Padua and Elze Bielskute earned golds in the 1000 yard freestyle and 100 yard breaststroke events respectively.  

Then, the veterans took over, with seniors Rola Hussein and Makaela Hill mining gold in the 100 backstroke and 50 freestyle respectively and sophomore Telma Maltesjo capturing the 200 yard breaststroke.

UMBC will open the home season on Saturday, Oct. 7 when they host La Salle on Parent's Weekend. The meet gets underway at noon.