SWIMMING & DIVING: Norwich, Simmons Tie Atop GNAC Women's Coaches' Poll Rankings

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHAMPIONSHIP CENTRAL

Norwich, Simmons women's programs
tie for first with 57 points apiece

WINTHROP, Mass. – The 2023 Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) Swimming & Diving Championships are set for this weekend, February 3-5, once again taking place at the Boston Sports Institute (BSI) in Wellesley, Mass., home of the 10-lane 2012 Olympic Trials Pool.

The GNAC's full three-day event begins with Friday morning prelims from Wellesley at 10:00 PM, with the 3m diving taking place at Simmons University's Holmes Sports Center at 2:30 PM. Fans are permitted at no cost at both venues, while event t-shirts will be available for purchase in Wellesley. 

For the complete poll results and event schedule through Sunday evening, please see below. 

In our annual coaches' pre-championship poll, Norwich University and Simmons tied atop the women's rankings with 57 points apiece, combining for seven of the eight first-place votes. 

Simmons has won 18 of the last 20 GNAC Women's Swimming & Diving team titles, as the Sharks dynasty also won 16 straight conference crowns from 2004-19. Meanwhile, Norwich looks to capture its first GNAC women's title since claiming back-to-back crowns in 1999 and 2000. 

Norwich also led the way as the runaway favorite in the men's poll, receiving all six first-place votes for 36 points, ahead of runner-up Regis College's 28 points. NU has won three of four GNAC men's titles since the league's inaugural championship meet during the 2017-18 season. 

At BSI's 10-lane competition pool, which is run by Charles River Aquatics, it has a bulkhead creating 10 lanes of 25 yards each with three perpendicular 25 yard lanes, two 1m diving boards, and 10 starting blocks. The mezzanine level of the natatorium features spectator seating for approximately 300. 

(Note: CRA is Mask Optional. Masking is a matter of individual preference. If continuing to mask increases your comfort at the pool, please do so. The health and safety of our patrons and staff throughout the pandemic has always been paramount. Please stay home if you are not feeling well). 

The Boston Sports Institute is a multi-use recreation center featuring two NHL regulation ice surfaces (one fully sled hockey compatible), a 1,500 SF indoor synthetic turf field/gymnasium, a 35,000 SF natatorium housing two pools, sports rehabilitation, a 6,700 SF Strength & Conditioning Center, a 450 LF elevated walking track, a pro shop and concessions.