When freshman Lia Reich steps out of the Terrapin women’s swimming and diving locker room this afternoon, perhaps to an a cappella tune of “Ramblin’ Wreck from Georgia Tech,” the sight of colors such as garnet and gold or Carolina blue on shirts and jackets aplenty, and an unforeseen mass of eager spectators, it will only be the latest chapter in the story of her personal transition to big-time Division 1 athletics.
But if the Terps are to reach the podium Saturday in the ACC Women’s Swimming and Diving Championship, which begins today, it must come through the calm and confident strokes and kicks of a talented freshman class that will enjoy its first time in the conference’s brightest spotlight.
“Everyone just keeps saying it’s unlike anything you’ve ever experienced,” Reich said. “I think this weekend is going to be really exciting and just a different experience for sure.”
Coach Sean Schimmel knows the collection of freshmen, many of whom have made an immediate impact on the scoreboard, will help the program in the long run. But this week, it’s all about culminating the season with a performance that matches the environment.
“We prepare ourselves all year for this – it’s just taking that next step up in terms of competition,” Schimmel said. “It’s going to be very exciting here at home. The stands are gonna be filled. There’s gonna be a very exciting atmosphere and competitive atmosphere on the deck.”
Among the freshmen, Schimmel said he will rely especially on Ginny Glover (freestyle and backstroke), Alexa Hamilton (breaststroke) and Meggie Schmidt (butterfly and individual medley).
“[There are] a lot of areas for those girls to step up and make some big jumps in terms of the conference and scoring some points,” Schimmel said. “We’re totally ready to take that next step up and the girls are ready to do that, whether they’re freshmen or seniors on our team.”
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