On your mark, get set, swim

The Dixon Center will open its doors to the swim team, the newest NCAA Division Ill sport at Cabrini since the induction of the dance team two years ago.

JERMAINE O'NEIL STAFF WRITER

A swim team is being introduced to Cabrini College's array of competitive sports. Swimming is officially a part of Cabrini's NCAA Division Ill sports program, and it hopes to stay that way.

The swimming coach, Jamie Ragukonis, who is far from an amateur when it comes to this particular sport, heads the team. Ragukonis was a swim competitor herself. She competed for Mansfield University and was ranked as an All-American swimmer. She was also the developmental coach at Haverford College and the swim coach at Mansfield Middle School. So from where Ragukonis started in Dallas, Pa. to where she is now, at Cabrini College, she has gained the experience and skill to lead a well-rounded, winning team.

"This is a building year. I hope to turn this into a varsity level team. I want to show we can grow, which is what Cabrini College is all about," Ragukonis said. They wi IIjust need their time and space. It looks like everyone will have to wait until the start of the season to find out.

The first team meeting was on Sept. 11. There were about seven girls present at this first meeting. Coach Ragukonis also talked to about six other interested swimmers. Not all of the potential swimmers attended, but they should not be discouraged. All you have to do is get a hold of Jamie Ragukonis and she will be more than welcome to talk to you. Practices start on Sept. 23, at 5:30 p.m. All those interested should try and reach Jamie, the coach before this date.