“I wanted to finish strong. It was my last season, so finishing strong was a key thing that I wanted to do. I think I did that,” Fuller said.

Fuller talked about the importance of not taking anything for granted because this was his senior season.

“I would probably say our midseason meet in Rochester [was my favorite]. It is a multi day meet, with lots of teams there. Teams from Division II and good Division III teams. It is a good time for us to get out, swim fast, making some memories swimming with the team and doing what we love best,” Fuller said.

Fuller talked about how the energy at the conference championship meet contributed to the performances of the team.

“MIAC’s this past weekend was a time where it was fun to swim and seemed like majority of people coming off taper were doing really well. I think all of that combined gave us the spirit of excitement and led us to swim our hardest and giving it our all,” Fuller said.

Junior diver Cody Watts, who competes in one-and three-meter diving, faced challenges through the season but it did not stop him from qualifying for Regionals this year.

“Definitely getting out of my head to do some harder dives. Normally I am afraid of smacking and that part holds me back a little bit,” Watts said.

An aspect of the sports season is reflecting on how your mindset changes throughout the season, and Watts saw his change from the first to the last regular season meet.

“At the first meet, I am getting more used to diving again and starting to get my harder dives. Then at MIAC championships, I was throwing all of my hard dives in and try to hit them in preparation for regions,” Watts said.

Watts also emphasized the cohesiveness of this year’s team.

“We always go to Puerto Rico for a training trip as a team. When we stay at the hotels there, we do everything together. At the beginning the season we did a team paintball match at a event center in the area. Also the swimmers always go to the Reef together,” Watts said.

Head coach Ben Gill, who is in his seventh year as head coach of the team, highlighted his athletes still competing in postseason meets.

“Brayden Slavik has a chance at Nationals. To qualify for Nationals, you need a top 16 time in the nation to qualify. He is currently sitting at third but other teams need to swim still. Also Cody Watts advanced to Regionals,” Gill said.

Slavik was named MIAC Men’s Swimmer of the Year for the second year in a row. Gill said that as a head coach, each year there always seems to be a key takeaway looking back at the whole season.

“It was a good season. We are in a transition period as a team. We have some very talented seniors, and a very young team. Those underclassmen are learning how to be a championship team again. I think our guys made huge strides in their own development and I hope that they carry that into next season,” Gill said.

At the start of each season, Gill always shares a message with his team about what is ahead this season.

“At the beginning of our season our goal was to learn, grow and get better as a team. That if we were satisfied with where we were last season, then it was going to take a lot to get back to that step,” Gill said. “It was just about taking each day as they came and trying to make yourself a little bit better. I think our guys took that to heart and I could see the improvement every day.”

Despite the MIAC Championships being the end of the season for most of the team, they are staying focused and committed to each other to support Watts as he looks forward to Regionals on Feb. 27-28, and Slavik as he prepares for Nationals, which takes place March 18-21.

Head coach Kevin Schiltz said the team’s performance this season was good despite unfortunate circumstances with injuries and illnesses among the athletes that took them out of the lineup. These circumstances have constantly shifted the lineup and impacted performances in dual meets.

“The overall performance was good, but the outcomes weren’t so good in some of the dual meets we lost,” Schiltz said.

He explained that the outcomes not leading up to expectations were due to some key athletes being out. Even with the injuries, Schiltz was proud to have champions and high placers on his team at almost every tournament. Some of the biggest improvements that Schiltz saw within the team were a majority of the wrestlers progressing in strength by hitting the weight room, getting out to compete and believing in their abilities to beat their opponents.

The main challenge that the athletes had to adapt to was making the transition from high school to college. Schiltz said that he has a very young team and the earlier the athletes can make the adjustment, the better off they will be. The mindset that Schiltz said he has for his wrestlers—both physically and mentally—is heading into the postseason being prepared to step on the mat with anybody who is in front of them and coming out on top if they put forth the effort.

Schiltz prioritizes strength and conditioning as the main focus heading into the NCAA Regional meet—wrestling is a cardiovascular sport, and resting too much can catch up to the athletes quickly.

“We’re keeping our conditioning level up for those extra-long matches that may go into overtime or that extra tough guy that just doesn’t want to seem to go away that stands in
front of us,” Schiltz said.

His message to the team is “A’s and pins,” striving for As in the classroom and building their body and mindset to go out and get those pins on the mat.

Junior Connor Krueger explained that his technique, growth and conditioning has improved over the course of the season through hard work and practice. Krueger said that he is prepared and in shape for the postseason. Some strategic improvements he has made is being familiar with his wrestling technique and mastering the fine details. Krueger gave his thoughts on his favorite match of
the year, being the first meet of the season at the UW-Stevens Point Pointer Open. He got to compete with schools from Division II and he enjoyed it the most.

Krueger’s mindset heading into Regionals is growth, using the regular season to get better, and being in the best shape. He expressed his gratitude towards his teammates and coaches for pushing him to get better every day and that his best friends are his best partners. Krueger’s main focus for Regionals is building up cardio anticipating that these next matches are going to be the toughest ones all year. His biggest goal is to qualify for the national championship after falling short of it by one spot last year. Knowing that the toughest matches are ahead, Krueger plans to rise to the occasion and take his competitiveness to the next level.

Junior Aidan Wayne said that he was happy with his performances through 18 heavyweight matches going 15-3, and 16 matches at 197 only losing once. Wayne began wrestling at 197 in his freshman year and said that he was a little anxious about how he would do in the first three duals. He ended up winning the duals, which was a turning point and confidence booster for him. One challenge that Wayne has faced during the season is dealing with bad shoulders, he would maintain this constant battle by getting into the weight room before and after practice every day when he can.

Wayne’s preparation for Regionals, both physically and mentally, is being mindful at practice, working on cardio and staying fit. Wayne emphasized placing top three is his main goal.

“I definitely want to place top three; I’d be pretty upset if I didn’t,” Wayne said—he would also like to get a shot at winning the tournament and going to Nationals.

The NCAA Regional wrestling meet will take place Feb. 27-28 in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

Junior Mary Morris, who had multiple individual wins, said the conference meet was really fun with many individual successes and relay performances.

“I think the atmosphere was the most energetic and supportive all season,” Morris said.

Heading into the conference meet, Morris said the team took a training trip to Puerto Rico and increased their training intensity over winter break.

“We also had a lot of team bonding during winter break, which helped us set the tone for how we went into conference,” Morris said.

Morris’ favorite part of the season was when her roommate returned from studying abroad in France and they got to swim with each other again.

Zelen said the regular season went really well for the team. They were able to win some meets and have fun together throughout the season. Zelen was really happy with how the conference meet went.

“They were amazing, I could not be more proud of the team. We won three of the five relays, which our team hasn’t done since 1999. I’m also extremely happy with how I performed and loved our team atmosphere throughout the meet,” Zelen said.

Zelen is now looking ahead to Nationals where she qualified in the 100 butterfly, 100 freestyle and 50 freestyle. The Division III NCAA Swimming Championship will take place March 18-21 in Indiana.

“Right now, I’m back to regular training and lifting until NCAA’s. I’m looking forward to getting to experience it and competing at that level, along with seeing what I can accomplish,” Zelen said.

Senior Megan Bartels had a good feeling heading into the season.

“Based on the team energy and strong incoming team members, we were really excited because we thought it could be a special season,” Bartels said.

With a historical showing at the conference meet, Bartels said the vibe was electric.

“We kicked off night one with a win in the 200 Medley Relay and it just kept building from there. I feel so fortunate to be part of such a historic year and surrounded by so many incredibly talented swim teammates,” Bartels said.

Being her senior season, Bartels is grateful for her four years on the team, saying it was the highlight of her experience at CSB.

“One thing I will hold close to my heart is the community that I have been a part of. This sport has brought amazing people into my life in the form of coaches, teammates, and competitors,” Bartels said.

As she processes her swim career at CSB, Bartels is happy for the experience she had.

“Being a part of Bennie Swim and Dive was about more than just swimming. I appreciate the personal growth that has come from four years of dedication and also the leadership opportunities that have helped prepare me for my next life chapter. No matter what comes next, I know swimming will always be a part of my life,” Bartels said.

Wolvert was also happy with how the regular season went.

“The regular season was strong. The swimmers and divers were very consistent with their training and racing, setting themselves up for a great end of season,” Wolvert said.

In terms of the MIAC Championships, Wolvert said they were historical. Zelen was the first ever CSB MIAC Swimmer of the Year, Morris and Zelen won a total of five events and they won three of five relays. Wolvert said it was very exciting to see the team make history. The team’s goal for the conference meet was to get as many Bennies onto the podium as possible.

“It was fun to see the Bennie Red on the podium event after event,” Wolvert said.

Wolver’s favorite part about coaching this team is watching her athletes accomplish their goals.

“Seeing each of them achieve the goals they set for themselves and their teammates. Seeing the smiles and celebrations at the end of the race makes everything worth it,” Wolvert said.

“I’m really excited about the direction the program is heading with Coach Nate. Having a coach with USA Rugby experience brings a high level of knowledge, professionalism and intensity to the team,” sophomore backs captain Jayden Forniel said via email. “At the same time, he genuinely cares about player development and building a strong culture, which has already made a big impact on the group.”

Augspurger talked about how he can use his perspective as a coach who has experience playing at the highest levels to keep his team in the right mindset.

“As a coach, it’s easy to see someone whose tempers may be flaring up or don’t direct the team in the best way,” Augspurger said.

Augspurger described his leadership style as “no excuses,” saying that if the players can commit themselves full-heartedly to any task or team, they aren’t going to be left without any lessons that they can use in the future. He expects leadership from everyone on the team, however they might choose to show it.

“Whether you’re a fire-up guy who likes to get loud and have your moments, or you’re a quiet guy who just shows up and does your work,” Augspurger said.

Forniel explained how Augspurger’s approach to training is having a positive impact on the team, both in terms of performance and team cohesion.

“We’ve had multiple practices and team sessions with him so far. They have been very competitive and detail oriented. The expectations are definitely higher, but in a way that pushes everyone to improve,” Forniel said via email. “We’re also a young team, so having a coach who is clear, organized and focused on development has been really important as we continue to learn and grow together.”

Augspurger said that effort means a lot to him. One of the pillars of his coaching style, he says, is how he buys into players that put their best effort into everything, no matter what the result is. He said he will always be
proud of his athletes for putting in their time, dedication and effort. The spring rugby season will be Augspurger’s first in the position of Director of Rugby for CSB+SJU. Forniel detailed the team’s excitement for the upcoming season.

“I’m optimistic about the spring season. Because we’re a young group, there’s still a lot of growth ahead of us, but the commitment from the players and the leadership from the coaching staff have been strong,” Forniel said via email. “If we keep training with intensity and stay connected as a team, I think we have a real opportunity to take a big step forward this season.”

Augspurger will also be in the position of head coach for SJU and oversee operations and development for CSB. This fall the Johnnies tied for first with a league record of 3-1 in the Northen Lights League in Division III of the Small College Division and qualified for the national tournament with a league title victory over St. Thomas. The Bennies had a record of 5-6-1 overall, with a 3-3 record in the Women’s Collegiate Recreational 7s conference.

“There’s a real sense of belief and energy around the program right now. The culture being built is focused on discipline, accountability and pride in representing St. John’s rugby, that’s something everyone is excited to be part of,” Forniel said via email.

“What a phenomenal opportunity,” Bartos said. “My family and I are really excited to take this on. Being a college coach has always been a dream, and it’s just too intriguing of an opportunity to let go.”

This spring, Bartos will lead the Bennies in their inaugural season as a varsity flag football program. CSB will compete in the Midwest College Women’s Flag Football League, which includes Augsburg, Augustana, Bethel, Concordia-Moorhead, Gustavus, Northwestern, St. Olaf, Southwest Minnesota State and the University of Wisconsin–Stout, who won the first-ever MCWFFL Championship last spring. Bartos arrives at CSB with a strong football background as both a player and a coach. Bartos was a three-time letter winner at defensive back for the University of Minnesota Morris when the program competed at the Division II level. Since 2015, Bartos has been the head football coach at Little Falls High School, where he also led both the boys and girls track and field programs. Bartos has also served as a senior youth development coach in the Minnesota Vikings organization.

“I love the sport of football. I’ve been playing or coaching since third grade. I can’t imagine my life at this point without football,” Bartos said. “I just want to grow the sport beyond what it is and make sure it continues to develop, mature and expand.”

CSB Athletic Director Kelly Anderson Diercks emphasized Bartos’ vision.

“I was looking for someone who was going to be able to articulate a vision for the program, someone who was going to be able to find talented prospective students and sell them on why St. Ben’s would be the best fit for them as an academic and an athletic destination,” Diercks said.

Diercks also pointed out that Bartos’ experience coaching both boys’ and girls’ athletics at the high school varsity level really helped set him apart from other candidates.

“My questions for him were about jumping from boys’ tackle to women’s flag football, and the differences in coaching a different gender. But he’s been doing that with high school boys and girls track already so that was certainly something that made me feel comfortable in his experiences,” Diercks said.

Bartos echoed that sentiment, saying his diverse coaching background will benefit the new program.

“I think having a broader range of experiences that I can use and apply with the St. Ben’s flag football program is really helpful,” Bartos said. “I’ve learned more over the last 11 years; just how relational coaching is. As a head coach for both football and track, I think you naturally have a broader view of your entire program and the purpose of what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.”

As he begins building the program, Bartos said his goals include consistently winning, but also much more than that.

“We want to meet the mission of St. Ben’s, which is to empower the next generation of young women,” Bartos said. “We also want to build a competitive championship-level program with a player-driven culture. The goal is always going to be to win, but the mission is broader.”

Diercks expressed confidence in the program and its place within the growing landscape of women’s athletics.

“My hope is that Joe sees how much the school believes that we can be successful in flag football and that we want to be very competitive right away,” Diercks said. “Flag football is just starting its NCAA journey, and we want St. Ben’s to have a voice in what the future of football is going to look like.”

St. Ben’s hopes adding flag football will help attract students interested in playing at the collegiate level, especially as high school flag football continues to grow in popularity.

“We always want to be at the forefront of what’s happening with women’s athletics,” Diercks said. “We already know we have a great education here. When we can add a sport that high school prospective students are interested in and back it up with a great education, I really think we have a great product.”

Bartos is excited to get started and work with his new team as the season approaches.

“Being able to step up to a college campus and into a team environment where I know I’m going to have a large group of young women who are motivated, enthusiastic and passionate about this project is really exciting to me as a coach,” Bartos said. “There is a vibe and a feeling here that I think is priceless, and I am deeply excited to begin that journey with these young ladies.”

“I’ve had the joy of working here for nine months already, and the confidence St. John’s has to put me in this role fulltime means a lot. I’m thankful for the administration and coaches for giving me this opportunity,” O’Brien said.

O’Brien said his favorite thing about his job is developing relationships with student athletes and coaches.

“I’ve learned and grown from both of those groups. I’ve also enjoyed meeting alums and seeing how passionate they are about St. John’s,” O’Brien said.

As he embraces his new role, O’Brien said he is looking forward to developing more relationships with the athletes and coaches, ways to make the athlete and coach experience better and improving facilities. SJU Assistant Athletic Director for Facilities and Events Peyton Bigaouette has been working alongside O’Brien for the last nine months and recalls the impact he has already had on SJU.

“He has been a great leader of our department and someone who is willing to put his best foot forward at all times to represent and lead our department. He has brought a huge, positive impact and pushed us to be our best,” Bigaouette said.

Bigaouette said the St. John’s community is excited about O’Brien being named the Athletic Director.

“Everyone seems to have reacted very positively with Dan coming in, and everyone in the Athletic Department and the athletes have been ecstatic since getting the interim tag removed. Being around Dan so much on a daily basis, I can see the good he has done already, and how positive the future looks here at SJU,” Bigaouette said.

Now that O’Brien has moved into a fulltime role, Bigaouette is excited to see what big projects O’Brien can tackle.

“There are only so many problems and tasks you can take on when you have a limited time, and now those projects can actually be addressed and taken on. He already has done so much good with our athletic department, and I am unbelievably excited to see the future of Saint John’s Athletics,” Bigaouette said.

SJU head athletic trainer Scott Bierscheid said he has enjoyed working with O’Brien over the last nine months.

“He trusts our abilities to get our jobs done while always being available to assist or talk things through. He sets an example by working extremely hard and is striving to improve the SJU athletic programs under his leadership,” Bierscheid said.

Bierscheid also said the student athletes and athletic department have responded positively to him.

“I believe the student-athletes are enjoying many of the building and staff improvements that Dan has already brought to our department,” Bierscheid said.

During his first week at SJU, O’Brien told Bierscheid he wanted to replace the 30-year-old treatment tables in the SJU athletic training room, so it would look more modern. He asked Bierscheid to get him the prices and he would make it happen. Now, there are seven new treatment tables in the athletic training room due to O’Brien’s efforts. Bierscheid is excited to see what O’Brien will accomplish now that he is in the fulltime role.

“Everyone can see in a short amount of time how much Dan loves SJU and the athletic programs he oversees. We know we have someone that is going to try as hard as he can to make this place better than it was when he started last summer,” Bierscheid said.

SJU head football coach Gary Fasching said he has known O’Brien for 30 years and admires his professionalism.

“He demands excellence and treats people fairly. Dan stops in my office every day to ask how things are going and what he can do to help. As a longtime coach, I appreciate that,” Fasching said.

Fasching said he is excited about what O’Brien brings to SJU and the Athletic Department.

“He has been a tremendous addition to our Athletic Department and worked extremely hard to build relationships with all coaches. He has a vision of how he wants all athletic teams to be the very best. In his short time here, he has worked hard to get things accomplished to enhance the experience of players and coaches,” Fasching said.

As O’Brien enters his new role as the St. John’s Athletic Director, Fasching is excited to see the impact he will have on SJU during his time here.

“This will give Dan a chance to put his stamp on the athletic department like our past Athletic Directors. He has high expectations for our coaches and athletes. He will demand the best from everyone. Knowing that he will be our permanent Athletic Director will allow our department to move forward with strong initiatives and expectations,” Fasching said.

“These early meets are about getting back into racing, knocking off any rust and preparing for bigger meets ahead,” St. Peter said.

Coming into the indoor season, the team’s goal is to win the MIAC Championship.

“On the distance side of things, our goal is to continue improving every day. We also believe we can go out and break the DMR [Distance Medley Relay] record again this season. Everyone from that team has returned, so we like our chances at breaking this record again and making a run at a national meet bid,” St. Peter said.

St. Peter is also excited for the mix of new and returning athletes to the team.

“We have a pretty big freshman class this year who all have the potential to develop into very solid runners. I look forward to seeing what this group can accomplish,” St. Peter said.

After an injury-ridden fall season, St. Peter said the returning runners are excited for a healthier track season and feel confident in their ability to run well this season. Being his senior season, St. Peter is most looking forward to the opportunities for him this season. After dealing with an injury most of the fall, he is excited to be healthy, fit, and ready to give everything he has for his final track season.

Senior sprinter Brennan Blake is also excited about the beginning of the season after solid performances
in the first two meets. Heading into the indoor season, the team’s goal is to have as many guys qualify for the MIAC Championships as possible.

“The goal is simple and it’s to win the MIAC. Each specific event group focuses on qualifying as many guys as possible. Workouts have started to pick up more as the season has progressed. It’s inevitable that some guys will run into some minor injuries, so rehabbing those is crucial to our team performance,” Blake said via email.

From the sprint side, Blake is excited about the mix of new and returning athletes to the team.

“We have some dawgs this year. Although we have been hit by a few injuries, we have guys that will rise to the occasion. Confidence is still high along with the anticipation and excitement for the MIAC Championships,” Blake said via email.

Being his senior season, Blake is looking forward to this final season with his team.

“I simply want to push my body to the max and see how much I can excel before my time is up. Soaking in this last semester. Not rushing a single thing. Love my guys and our coaches, so cherishing this season as much as I can. It would be excellent to end on an indoor/outdoor MIAC Championship sweep,” Blake said via email.

Head Coach Jeremy Karger-Gatzow said the first two meets were a good assessment of the team.

“It is our first chance to see the first-year athletes compete. The season kicked off with our annual alumni meet, and we had a great turnout with over 40 alumni showing up to compete against the team,” Karger-Gatzow said.

Heading into the season, Karger-Gatzow has one goal for his team.

“We want to develop athletes with consistent training in a supportive environment. If we accomplish that, the individual performances will lead to team success,” Karger-Gatzow said.

The team has been preparing for the season since September and progressed throughout the fall and winter.

“They have dedicated a great deal of time to prepare for these early meets and finally are able to see the results of their dedicated work,” Karger-Gatzow said.

After impressive performances so far, Karger-Gatzow is excited to see this continue throughout the season and what this team can accomplish. Karger-Gatzow is looking forward to helping the team this season.

“I just want them to give it their best shot and, the good Lord willing, things will work out,” Karger-Gatzow said.

The Johnnies’ next meet will take place this weekend at the University of Minnesota.

“Getting the chance to compete with our team. A lot of us especially on the field and sprint side of things have been practicing since September. So it is very fun to get the team together now with the athletes from cross country now and to get to compete,” Berg said.

A reality in college athletics is realizing that your team will look different each year and Berg says this year is different from others.

“We have a really good returning chunk of people but we also have a lot freshmen this year. Especially with the first-years, they are all really motivated and excited to put in the work and compete. It’s fun to be able to train as a group and see how supportive we are,” Berg said.

A large part of all sports is the offseason training that prepares athletes for the season ahead.

“We put in a lot of hard work and a lot of hard workouts in the off-season, which definitely correlates with us in season. We all feel really confident running and running hard paces and we realize that now this is our chance to put it into action,” Berg said.

Senior Jaylyn Ahlberg, who is one of three pole vaulters on the team, talks about how her mindset and priorities have shifted coming into this season from the off-season

“It becomes a routine. The preseason is more learning, strength training and how we can get better. With the season ahead now, it’s about our preparation in the days before meets. Whether it is a sprinting day, jumping day or recovery day, it’s to get our body more ready for the next meet. It’s important to also grab takeaways after meets to become more successful going forward,” Ahlberg said.

A key piece to every team is how they support each other through all of the ups and downs of the season and this team does it in a special way.

“We all start and do a circle up. Normally a senior will talk and give sort of a motivational speech to really bring us together and remind us of why we are here. They usually express how excited we are have to opportunity to compete. [It] gives our team more of a teammate mentality, telling us that we got this and that we know what we are doing,” Ahlberg said.

After each season, many look in ways to improve in their athletic career and it was no different this offseason for Ahlberg.

“I worked on my strength and running mechanics. I didn’t grow up prioritizing running. It’s something I am working on this year and trying to keep it consistent, so I am more strong and reliable when I am running. It sets me up for the most success in the long term,” Ahlberg said.

Head coach Robin Balder-Lanoue, who is in her 29th year coaching the team, contributes greatly to the athletes by setting them up with training plans to best suit themselves.

“I do the same thing as I do in the cross country season for those athletes. Along with our assistant coaches, we create training plans that best fit the athletes to keep them happy, healthy and able to compete all season,” Balder-Lanoue said.

An important piece of creating a culture on the team is leaning on leadership from players as well as coaches. Balder-Lanoue says she has 6 strong leaders.

“Our captains are Mary Kenney, Brooke Verkinnes, Lauren Berg, Mya Nelson, Emma Schuele and Jaylyn Ahlberg. It’s fun to see them off to a great start this season. They are great role models and are willing to leave their comfort zone to be great vocal leaders, too. They are all hard workers,” Balder-Lanoue said.

Each year Balder-Lanoue says they have a new word or phrase for the season. This year’s word is Ubuntu.

“‘I am because we are’, is what it loosely translates to. After spending a week together talking about it, we asked what word would you use to describe us? We created a wordle that showed: welcoming, supportive and there for each other. The things that you want your team culture to be, competitive, driven, but it means so much more when you know your team has your back and the team culture this year has really encompassed that,” Balder-Lanoue said.

The CSB Track and Field team has its next meet, the Gopher Classic, in Minneapolis on Saturday, Feb. 7.

“I credit the team’s early overall success to a strong upper class,” Wolvert said. “They’ve done a great job at bringing our new athletes into the fold, leading by example and celebrating everyone’s wins. Their energy is contagious.”

For Wolvert, one of the defining characteristics of this year’s roster is their daily resilience.

“They don’t give up,” Wolvert said. “They show up every day, give everything in practice and race at 100% every time.”

Next weekend’s Rochester Invitational offers the team a chance to measure its progress against a competitive field.

“This is my favorite meet,” Wolvert said. “The competition is stiff, but every year our athletes step up and post a ton of great times and scores.”

With CSB resting and suiting up for the invitational, Wolvert hopes to see continued improvement, particularly through time drops and qualifying marks. She noted that if the program were to adopt a motto for the year, it would be “DISRUPT,” reflecting the team’s intention to challenge expectations and make their presence known. Junior swimmer Haley Zelen shared her coach’s emphasis on consistency and work ethic. She said the team’s strong start has been fueled by collective effort throughout the fall.

“One factor that has led to our overall success this season is the entire team’s work ethic,” Zelen said. “Everyone has been showing up and putting in the work. Even on rough days, everyone’s effort is still there.”

Zelen, who will compete in Rochester, said the meet provides an important opportunity for both individual and team benchmarks.

“As a team, we’re trying to see how many new personal bests we can get, and how many final spots we can take,” Zelen said. “Individually, I’m looking forward to having fun with the team and trying to get some NCAA cuts.”

Sophomore diver Emma Netland will compete at the Macalester Invite, where she will be in an 11-dive list, offering her a chance to compete directly against many divers from across the MIAC. She noted that the team’s incoming class has strengthened the overall roster.

“I think that our team got a lot of new talent this year. We brought in a lot of freshmen who have helped build this community we have here,” Netland said.

Looking ahead, both swimmers and divers say the next phase of the season will require focus, especially as the team moves into the long winter training block and prepares for championship meets in February and March. Zelen described January as a demanding but essential portion of the schedule.

“For the rest of the season, we’ll be staying consistent with our training, especially while at home for break,” Zelen said. “A team goal is keeping energy levels high during January training when campus is empty, training is hard, and outside is dark and cold. We’ll just need to stay focused and get through it together.”

For Netland, the second half of the year is an opportunity for personal growth.

“As a sophomore, this is the year that is best for major improvements and new dives,” Netland said. “Last year was kind of an adjustment year, so the rest of this year is just to get better.”

Netland added that throughout the season, one of the team’s overarching goals—particularly within the Division III environment—is maintaining a supportive team dynamic.

“One goal as a team that we always have is to just have fun in our community,” said Netland. “We have a great team, and as a D3 sport, it’s nice just to enjoy it.”

As the Bennies enter the midseason stretch, the team still has goals they want to focus on: steady improvement and competitive consistency. Whether at the Rochester Invitational, the Macalester meet or the months of training still ahead, CSB aims to use its early momentum as a building block for the rest of the season.

Volleyball secured a bid after a 3-2 comeback win against MIAC No. 1 seed St. Olaf in Northfield to win the MIAC Tournament. On the way to the conference win, the team beat Augsburg at home and Gustavus in St. Peter. The team is currently 21-6.

In the team’s win against St. Olaf, senior Chaeli Haupert co-led the team in aces (2) and led in digs (32). Juniors Brooke Andries and McKenna Moehrle co-led the team in blocks (5), first-year Keira McManus in kills (13) and first-year Ginny Schuler in assists (21). Junior Kali Jones leads the team in points for the season (337.5) followed by senior Mackenzie Knofczynski (265.5) and McManus (237).

The Bennies play Washington University on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 11:30 a.m., the team they lost to in last year’s tournament. The game will be in Oshkosh, Wisc., a neutral site, and will be livestreamed on the NCAA website.

The SJU football team secured their tournament appearance through an at-large bid. The NCAA chooses the teams based on NPI index, which is calculated based on record and strength-of-schedule among other factors, and conference winners. Bethel won the MIAC and is the Johnnies’ only loss of the season; a game played at Bethel. St. John’s earned the 16th highest NPI overall, leading to an at-large bid. The Johnnies finished 9-1.

The Johnnies will play No. 25 Monmouth (9-1) in the second round; both teams get a first-round bye. Monmouth’s one loss of the season was a 7-21 loss at No. 5 Wartburg in their first game of the season. The Johnnies will play Monmouth on Saturday, Nov. 29 at 12:00 p.m. in Collegeville.