Jayhawk Divers Place at U.S. Senior Diving Nationals

July 30, 2008

LAWRENCE, Kan. –

Kansas junior Meghan Proehl and sophomore Erin Mertz both placed at the U.S. Senior Diving Nationals in Pasadena, Calif. last week. Proehl, a junior from San Diego, Calif., captured a 17th place finish in the 1-meter event with a score of 200.65. Mertz, a sophomore from Omaha, Neb., took home 22nd place in the 1-meter event (188.85) and 24th in the 3-meter springboard event (209.35).

“It was a really good learning experience, getting to compete against the best divers in the country,” Kansas diving coach Eric Elliott said. “It’s great for Meghan and Erin to face this competition this summer. It will make them stronger and give them a better idea of how to handle the pressure of our big meets this season.”

Both Jayhawks were competing against the best divers in the United States throughout the week, and also were able to train with the U.S. Olympic team before it left for China.

Mertz and Proehl will look to use this experience as they prepare for the upcoming collegiate season. KU kicks off the 2008-09 campaign on Oct. 3 with the Pentathlon at Robinson Natatorium.

“This event was all about giving them confidence heading into the college season,” Elliott said. “I could tell both of them have worked really hard this offseason. I’m excited to see what they can do this year.”