Jorgensen era begins with losses against Ohio State
October 14, 2013
By Andrew Adkins
UK men’s and women’s swimming and diving lost to Ohio State University by a combined score of 371-226 in its home opener Friday at the Lancaster Aquatics Center.
Senior diver Greg Ferrucci and junior diver Christa Cabot led the Cats, as the duo swept all four diving events.
“It’s early in the season and we are still attempting to get in rhythm,” Ferrucci said, “We’ve been busting our butts and the team did an awesome job, but we need to work on being more consistent.”
The Buckeyes showcased consistency right from the start by winning the first ten events.
“I thought we fought hard, but lacked a little depth against a good Ohio State team,” first-year UK head coach Lars Jorgensen said.
Jorgensen made his first appearance at home as head coach of the Cats, and was enthused with the near-capacity crowd.
“I love being at home; you don’t have to travel and the fans were just awesome,” Jorgensen said.
Jorgensen was also intrigued by the early-season performance of junior swimmer Christina Bechtel, who finished first in the women’s 100- and 200-yard butterfly.
“She’s been very impressive, posting times that are likely some of the fastest in the country,” Jorgensen said.
Bechtel explained that a major reason for her success this season can be attributed to the presence of Jorgensen.
“Coach has helped me so much. I’ve improved a lot, and so has the team because of the way he pushes us in practice.” Bechtel said.
The women’s team lost to the Buckeyes by a score of 195-104, but finished first and second in both the 100- and 200-yard butterfly.
The men’s swimming team earned first-place finishes in four events. Senior swimmer Eric Bruck won the 50-yard freestyle, while fellow senior swimmers Maclin Simpson and Lucas Gerotto captured first in the 200-yard butterfly and 100-yard butterfly, respectively.
The senior swimmers, as well as Ferrucci, delivered all of the first-place finishes for the Cats. Jorgensen expects the rest of the team to provide a spark.
“Our times are better, but others need to step up,” Jorgensen said. “We can’t keep relying on the same people.”
The Cats now have twelve days to prepare for a two-day, three-team meet with Southern Illinois University and the University of Missouri beginning on Oct. 24 in Carbondale, Ill.
