Feb. 10, 2005

COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina diving team will compete in the 2005 SEC Championships this weekend, Feb. 11-13 at the Stephen O’Connell Center in Gainesville, Fla. Action begins at Noon with the women’s 3-meter and the men’s 1-meter boards. The finals are scheduled for 6 p.m.

“This is one of our biggest meets of the year. We have a lot of depth this year,” said head diving coach Todd Sherritt. “We have some individuals that have chances to win but it will take a combined effort to lead the competition. Our goal is to get everyone to final. There are eight final spots and we would like to get all four of our women and all three of our men in there.”

The Gamecocks have a chance to come home with conference hardware on both sides. Senior Lauren King, who has been undefeated in dual meets throughout the season, should be a strong contender in the 1-meter. Tracy Richardson, the 2002-03 3-meter SEC champion, will look to earn another title and All-American Holly Hodges hopes to pick up her first conference title.

“We are the strongest we have ever been. I think we are capable of a top three overall finish on both sides,” said Sherritt. “We have a good amount of experience this year.”

On the men’s side, senior All-American Andy Bradley looks to capitalize on his third -place finishes last year in both boards and hopefully earn his first title. Senior Dean Emmerton has also had a solid season and is capable of reaching the finals on either board.

The competition will continue on Saturday with the 3-meter men’s and the 1-meter women’s events and conclude Sunday with the 10-meter boards.