Women’s swimming and diving collaborates to assist competitors

NMU Rec Sports in collaboration with the women’s swimming and diving team will be hosting the High Dive Showdown from 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21 at the PEIF pool.

Registration is open to any PEIF-pass holder and instruction will be provided by the NMU swimming and diving team, according to senior public relations major and PEIF student building manager, Mary Hudock.

“NMU’s Rec Sports manager, Katie Theut, is working on showcasing all of the different opportunities the PEIF has to offer,” Hudock said. “This is one of many more to come.”

Participants will have the chance to dive from the five-meter platform after they show they can safely jump from the one- and three-meter boards.

“For participants, all I have to say is you usually don’t have the opportunity to go off the high dive, so it will be a thrilling and exciting experience,” senior public relations major and swim team member Megan Crowder said. “Just come and have fun.”

The event will consist of two parts: open diving from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and competition for prizes from 8:30 to 9 p.m.

Categories include biggest splash, best trick and longest airtime.

Contestants will be able to choose prizes from a prize basket, according to Hudock, which ranges from NMU apparel to General Nutrition Centers merchandise.

Judges for the event are NMU diving coach Milton Braga, Hudock and Crowder.

Junior biology major and diving team member Molly Kearney offered some advice for participants.

“My advice for people that are thinking about participating is definitely come join us,” Kearney said. “It is going to be a very fun and laid back event, so there is no reason to be afraid

“If there is something you want to learn to do, this would be a great opportunity to get some coaching.”

Kearney said the team is eager to share their sport with the community.

“People will also be able to learn a little more about what is involved, especially on the diving side,” Kearney said. “Most people really have no idea what it is, what we do at practice or the mental toughness that comes with it. The height still makes us nervous sometimes.

“We love sharing the sport with people and we all enjoy teaching beginners because learning something new, even something as basic as the front approach or just facing the fear of jumping off the high dive for the first time, is really exciting to watch and be a part of.”

There is no cost or deadline to register and PEIF members are welcome to observe.

To register for the event, stop by the Rec Sports Main Office in Peif Room 126 or call (906) 227-2519.