Tampa Men’s Swimming Defeats Division I Florida Atlantic

Tampa, Fla. - The University of Tampa swimming team participated in the second meet of the season and fared well against a Division I opponent. The Spartan men held off Florida Atlantic to record a 136-125 victory while the women fell short, losing 149-108.

Freshman Blaine Bess turned in a trio of top performances, winning the men's 200, 500 and 1,000 free races. All-American Kyle Merritt won the 100 backstroke and led the 400 free relay team to an impressive victory. Frank Kuchta, Ryan Reyes and Greg Cerrato teamed with Merritt for the win. Roman Dagash was tops in the 100 and 200 fly while Cerrato also won the 50 free for the Spartans.

Freshman Jessie Bardin continued to display her top talent, winning the 100 free after finishing first in three races last week. Mariesa Hardin also turned in a top-place finish in the 100 breaststroke.