Eagles Open SAC Play Strong at Mars Hill
Eagles open SAC competition with strong performances and multiple event wins against Mars Hill.
MARS HILL, N.C. – Carson-Newman swimming opened South Atlantic Conference competition on Friday evening with a strong showing against Mars Hill at Harrell Pool. The Eagles carried momentum from last week's quad meet in Indianapolis to post another solid team performance.
"I think the team performed well today based on our expectations for them," said assistant coach Aaron Bauer. "We really upped the training load this week, and we knew that would affect how the team performed. They did a great job of getting up and racing while feeling the effects of the week's training."
Friday's meet marked the first of two head-to-head contests between Carson-Newman and Mars Hill this season, with the rematch scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10, in Mossy Creek. The Eagles and Mountain Lions also faced off twice last season, with Carson-Newman sweeping both meetings.
"Mars Hill is always a good atmosphere to start with," Bauer said. "We like their coaches and team, and it's a great way to start conference competition."
The men's side saw several standout performances from newcomers Riley Mortenson and Griffin Fisher.
"Freshman Riley Mortenson, in his first meet, had two individual event wins and was part of a winning relay," said Bauer. "Griffin Fisher looked very good in his performance in the 100-yard breaststroke."
On the women's side, Paola Gonzales stepped up in a big way, securing two first-place finishes against the Mountain Lions.
"Paola Gonzales secured two event wins and showed up strong to this meet," Bauer added.
"We only have three meets left this semester before midseason at the Gamecock Invitational," Bauer stated. "Using every opportunity we can to get ready to race is very important. Continuing to learn from those races each time is a valuable part of what we do on a regular basis. From a camaraderie standpoint, we have a lot of newcomers on our team, so being at meets, competing, and cheering together is important for creating a team."
The Eagles return to action next at the Emory Invitational, a two-day meet taking place Nov. 7–8 at the Madeleine Jude Brown Aquatic Center in Atlanta, Ga. Start times for the meet are to be announced.
Stay connected with Carson-Newman swimming by following @CN_Eagles on X and Instagram, or Carson-Newman Athletics on Facebook. Full coverage and updates are available at cneagles.com.
