The UNI women’s swimming and diving team hosted Loras College and Iowa Central Community College on Friday, Jan. 11 for the first meet of the new year.

The Panthers came out strong, as they took the top three spots in seven of the swimming events.

On the diving side, the Panthers took the top three spots on the three-meter board, with Alyssa Deuso taking first with a score of 250.42, Mary Kate Ferlmann recorded a score of 220.94 and Jayden Lovell rounded out the Panthers in third place with a score of 216.08.

The following day, UNI traveled to Ames to take on in-state rival, Iowa State. Sophomore Katie Taylor led the way for the Panthers, as she placed first in three events including the 100 backstroke (54.72), 200 backstroke (1:59.84) and 200 individual medley (2:04.48).

Other Panthers who captured first place finishes included Moriah Ross in the 100 breaststroke (1:04.96) and the 200 breaststroke (2:19.78) and Crystal Florman in the 1000 freestyle (10:25.28) and 100 butterfly (56.56).

The Panthers would also go on to receive second-place in the 400 freestyle relay, 200 medley relay, 50 freestyle and the 200 butterfly, while also scoring third-place in the 500 freestyle and 200 individual medley. 

On the diving side, Alyssa Deuso led the Panthers, scoring a 252.30 for third-place on the three-meter boards.

Jayden Lovell (250) and Mary Kate Ferlmann (235.35) followed her with fourth and fifth place finishes. Alyssa Deuso also led the way on the one-meter boards scoring a 248.10 for third-place, followed by Jayden Lovell in fourth-place with a 239.80.

Up next, the UNI women will host their last home meet against Illinois State at 2 p.m. on Jan. 19.