University of Scranton Men’s Swimming Dominates Season Opener Against Widener
A commanding performance marked the start of the University of Scranton men’s swimming team’s 2025–26 season, as they defeated Widener University 209–53 at the Byron Recreation Complex on Saturday, October 12. The Royals showcased both depth and early-season form, securing victories in nearly every event.
Royals Sweep Relay to Kick Off Dominant Performance
The University of Scranton men’s swimming team wasted no time establishing their dominance, sweeping the top three spots in the opening 200-yard medley relay. The winning team, comprised of freshman Jake Brunetti, junior Conor Doogan, senior Matt Sherry, and freshman Owen Sherry, finished with a time of 1:36.96, setting a powerful tone for the afternoon.
Distance and Freestyle Stars Shine
Senior Jimmy O’Malley led the charge in the distance events, securing wins in both the 1000-yard freestyle (10:11.60) and the 500-yard freestyle (4:58.55). Junior Christopher Clarke closely followed, contributing valuable points to the team’s overall score. In the freestyle sprints, freshman Owen Sherry demonstrated impressive speed, winning the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 21.95. Sophomore Craig Clarke also added to the Royals’ success, winning the 100-yard freestyle in 48.99.
Brunetti and Sherry Brothers Lead Individual Victories
Freshman Jake Brunetti continued his impressive debut, capturing titles in both the 50-yard backstroke (24.58) and the 100-yard backstroke (53.64). Sophomore Ethan Kwon added a victory in the 200-yard individual medley (2:03.38), along with a second-place finish in the 100-yard backstroke. Senior Matt Sherry delivered a strong performance, winning both the 100-yard butterfly (53.85) and the 50-yard butterfly (24.03).
Additional event winners included sophomore Matt Bellach in the 100-yard breaststroke (1:02.28) and junior Conor Doogan in the 50-yard breaststroke (28.06).
Royals Seal Victory with Relay Triumph
The University of Scranton capped off the meet with a decisive win in the 400-yard freestyle relay. The team of Craig Clarke, Zach Leonard, Matt Sherry, and Jake Brunetti posted a winning time of 3:17.38, solidifying the Royals’ comprehensive victory.
The 209–53 triumph underscores the team’s depth and potential for a successful season.
Up Next for the Royals
The University of Scranton men’s swimming team will continue their season with a tri-meet next weekend in Ithaca, New York, facing Ithaca College and Hartwick College on Saturday, October 18, at 1:00 PM.
