Swimming announces 2008-09 freshman class
LORETTO, Pa. (Dec. 5, 2007) – Saint Francis University head swimming coach Patrick Gallagher has announced that three talented high school seniors have committed to the Red Flash and will join the team in time for the 2008-09 campaign. With the loss of four seniors at the end of this season, the Flash coaching staff has added Bethany Lanzendoen (River Edge, N.J./River Dell), Carly Szmyd (Jeannette, Pa./Penn Trafford) and Jessica Dunn (Bristow, Va./Seton School) during the fall signing period.
“We are very excited about this group of young women and what they will bring to the program,” said Gallagher. “This year’s senior class was instrumental in building a tradition here at Saint Francis. I am confident these athletes will continue and build on the tradition of Red Flash Swimming.”
Lanzendoen swims for River Dell Regional High School as well as the Ridgwood YMCA. Bethany is a talented middle distance freestyle specialist with potential to make an impact in many different events. At River Dell, she was named first team All North Jersey and holds varsity records in three individual events as well as two relays. She will serve as the team’s captain this winter. With the Ridgewood YMCA, Lanzendoen has been a multi-event national qualifier for four years. Bethany serves as River Dell Peer Leader and is a member of the school’s honor roll. She will study Physician’s Assistant at Saint Francis.
Szmyd is a Western Pennsylvania product and attends Penn Trafford High School in addition to competing for Greensburg YMCA. Over the past two years, Carly has qualified for every event at the WIPAL district meet and has been a state qualifier and member of an All American relay. With the Greensburg YMCA, she is a nine time national qualifier and former Pennsylvania state champion. In 2007, Carly was nominated for the 2007 Spirit Award. She is a member of the National Honor society and will major in Physicians Assistant at Saint Francis.
Dunn is a member of the Seton School Conquistadors and QDD Swim team in Northern Virginia. A multi-event threat, Jessie was the high point scorer and coaches award winner for the Conquistadors. In addition, she has been named All Conference and All State in her high school league.