Wheeling Swimmers Crowned MEC Athletes of the Week After Dominant Performance
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The Wheeling University men’s and women’s swimming teams rebounded strongly with decisive victories over Salem on Wednesday, earning two prestigious Mountain East Conference (MEC) Swimmer of the Week awards. The accolades, presented by The Healthplan, recognize the outstanding performances of Felix Norlin and niki Chrysafi, solidifying Wheeling’s position as a rising force in collegiate swimming.
Following a challenging meet against Davis & Elkins, the Cardinals returned to their home pool for their final competition of the first half of the season. both the men’s and women’s teams demonstrated immediate strength, securing wins in the 400-Yard medley Relay and building momentum throughout the day.
Women’s Team Dominates with Nine Wins
The Wheeling women’s team showcased exceptional skill, achieving a commanding 134-57 victory over salem. They secured a total of nine wins, including eight individual swims and one relay triumph. This performance elevates their MEC record to 2-2 as they prepare for the Malone Midseason Invitational and continue their ascent in the conference standings.
Men’s Team Secures Nail-Biting Victory
The men’s competition proved to be a closely contested affair, culminating in a thrilling finish. the Cardinals ultimately prevailed with a narrow 103-102 win, maintaining their undefeated record in conference play.They achieved four victories, three of which were individual performances, demonstrating a well-rounded team effort.
Norlin Earns Second MEC Male Swimmer of the Week Honor
Felix Norlin secured his second MEC Male Swimmer of the Week award this season, contributing to two of the Cardinals’ four wins. He began his day with a strong performance in the 400-Yard Medley Relay, completing the breaststroke leg in 58.68 seconds as part of a winning team time of 3:38.45. Norlin than achieved a personal best in the 200-Yard Individual Medley, finishing in 2:01.25, nearly five seconds ahead of his competitors. He rounded out his extraordinary day with a second-place finish in the 100-Yard Breaststroke with a time of 1:01.00.
Chrysafi Claims First MEC Female Swimmer of the Week Award
Niki Chrysafi was recognized as the MEC Female Swimmer of the Week for her outstanding leadership and performance. She played a key role in three of the team’s nine wins, including two individual victories. Chrysafi set a season-best time of 2:21.12 in the 200-Yard Individual Medley, and dominated the 100-Yard Backstroke with a time of 1:02.56.She also anchored the winning 400-Yard medley Relay team, leading off with a time of 4:12.64, helping the team finish nearly 20 seconds ahead of the competition.
These awards mark the 21st and 22nd conference player of the week honors for Wheeling University student-athletes this season. Norlin’s achievement represents the third Male Swimmer of the Week award for the team,while chrysafi secured the first Female Swimmer of the Week award. Last week,Wheeling wrestler Gavin Harper was honored as the MEC Co-Wrestler of the Week.
The Wheeling University Swimming team will resume competition on Thursday, November 20th, at the Malone Midseason Invitational.
