Badgers Dominate Phoenix in Season Opener

The University of Wisconsin Badgers kicked off their 2024-2025 swimming and diving season with a resounding victory over the Green Bay Phoenix. The Badgers showcased their depth and talent, sweeping the competition in both the women's and men's events. Despite a few late exhibition races to keep the score close, the Badgers' dominance was undeniable, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

Powering Through the Competition

Women's Standout Performances

The Wisconsin women's team was led by the impressive performances of Phoebe Bacon, who returned to the pool after a successful run at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. Bacon, a versatile swimmer, claimed victories in the 100 butterfly and 200 freestyle, showcasing her adaptability and impressive form. Her 200 freestyle time of 1:47.62 was a new personal best, indicating that she has maintained her momentum from the Olympics.Freshman Maggie Wanezek also made a strong debut for the Badgers, winning the 200 individual medley and contributing to the team's victorious 200 medley relay. Wanezek's performance highlights the depth of the Badgers' roster, as they continue to attract top-tier talent to their program.In the diving events, Molly Hampton swept the competition, winning both the 3-meter and 1-meter events. Her consistent performances in the diving well underscored the Badgers' well-rounded team.

Men's Dominant Displays

The Wisconsin men's team also flexed their muscles, with several standout performances. Yigit Aslan, a key contributor to the Badgers' success last season, picked up where he left off, winning the 200 freestyle and 500 freestyle events. His times in these events were on par with his championship-winning performances from the previous year, indicating that he is poised for another successful campaign.Taiko Torepe-Ormsby, another returning champion for the Badgers, showcased his versatility by leading off the 400 freestyle relay and anchoring the 200 medley relay. While his individual event times were more tempered, his contributions to the relay teams demonstrated his value to the team.The Badgers' middle-distance and distance swimmers also shone, with Yoav Romano and Zach Ward securing victories in the 1000 freestyle and 500 freestyle, respectively. Ben Wiegand, a standout breaststroker, won the 100 breaststroke and 50 freestyle, further solidifying the Badgers' depth across multiple events.

Newcomer Impresses

The meet also marked the collegiate debut of Finn Bacon, the younger brother of Phoebe Bacon. Finn Bacon finished third in the 200 backstroke and contributed to the 400 freestyle relay, showcasing his potential and the continued influx of talent to the Badgers' program.

Preparing for Tougher Challenges Ahead

While the Badgers' dominant performance over the Green Bay Phoenix was an impressive start to the season, the team faces a much greater test next weekend. They will compete in a two-day tri-meet against powerhouses Michigan and Notre Dame, providing an early-season gauge of their abilities against some of the top programs in the nation.The Green Bay Phoenix, on the other hand, will look to regroup and build momentum as they compete at the Wisconsin Showcase in Milwaukee next Saturday. The Phoenix, who finished last in the Horizon League Championships last season, are determined to turn the page and establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the conference.Overall, the Badgers' season-opening victory over the Phoenix has set the stage for an exciting and promising campaign. With their depth, talent, and championship pedigree, the Badgers are poised to make a strong push for conference and national titles in the months to come.