While the majority of Wesleyan students migrated home to enjoy their lengthy winter vacations, the men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams geared up for a hectic stretch. These athletes enjoyed a mere two-week vacation before they returned to campus on Dec. 30 to resume their training, which was characterized by early mornings and strenuous workouts. On the team’s schedule was a trip to Puerto Rico, followed by a crucial meet against the Hamilton Continentals.

Winter break almost always defines how the team’s remaining season will play out. Though it is very tempting to spend countless hours watching Netflix and sleeping, only to break this monotony with perpetual snacking, it is crucial that athletes remain focused and fit so as not to fall behind.

The Cardinals attempted to maintain their momentum with their trip to Puerto Rico. In addition to training, the Cardinals were able to recover and recuperate in a climate much more forgiving than Connecticut’s frigid weather. This was very important, as injuries are one of the biggest problems affecting the team this season.

“Needless to say, everyone is looking forward to our team’s annual Winter Training Trip to Puerto Rico after the holidays when we can get everyone rested up, healthy, and training at full force,” said Head Coach Peter Solomon.

The Cardinals have suffered from a plethora of injuries that have seriously prevented the team from reaching its full potential. Ali Pourmaleki ’18 has missed the majority of the season with a torn ligament in his thumb. Additionally, Amanda Distler ’15 has been recovering from a broken rib while her younger brother, Max Distler ’18, has been out with strained back muscles. All of these swimmers are now back in the water, ready to compete, and four Cardinals who were studying abroad are also returning to the lineup. These additions should make a notable difference in the team’s upcoming weeks, particularly against Coast Guard this weekend.

Over winter break, the Cardinals faced off against Hamilton College. There was a great deal of tension surrounding this meet, as the Cardinals looked to build momentum approaching the NESCAC championships later this spring. Despite a solid effort put forth by Wesleyan’s men and women, the Cardinals fell short of  victory. However, the results of the meet against Hamilton have not hindered the Cardinals’ resolute desire to perform well in the final stretch of the season.

The team saw winter break as an opportunity to put its past struggles behind and focus on the future. While a loss to the Continentals was not the fresh start they desired, the team remains as determined as ever. Next weekend Wesleyan will take on Coast Guard during the Cardinals’ senior recognition weekend.

“It would be a boost to the team’s morale heading into the NESCAC Championships in February should all of the pieces come together in the next few meets and both teams were able to beat The Coast Guard Academy,” Solomon said.