Chen named Big 12 Diver of the Week

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Kansas diver Jiayu Chen was named the Big 12’s Women’s Diver of the Week by the league office Wednesday (Oct. 16). The freshman, who tallied two first-place finishes in her collegiate debut, becomes the third freshman ever to earn an award on opening weekend. She joins West Virginia swimmer Emily Haimes as the two award recipients to open up the season.

Chen, the Zhanjiang, China native, was a key piece in the Jayhawks victories over Missouri State (244-101) and South Dakota (261-87) during the Kansas Double Dual last weekend. The freshman began the weekend claiming the top spot in the 1-meter dive with a 285.80 total score on Friday. She followed that up with another first-place finish in the 3-meter dive on Saturday, thanks to a 287.20 final score.

Diving coach Gabe Downey’s thoughts

Kansas will return to the pool on Friday, October 25, as they host their annual Alumni Meet at Robinson Natatorium. The meet is scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. and is free admission to all those who wish to attend.