By: Kyle Isaacs

Despite the calendar just turning to October, the Xavier men’s and women’s swimming teams kicked off their seasons this week at the Butler Fall Invitational in Indianapolis, Ind.

The Musketeers competed in their first meet nearly two weeks earlier than they have in previous years, but this early start may help Xavier as the season progresses.

The women’s team bested Butler University in the dual meet while the men’s team almost defeated Saint Louis University.

The Musketeers were unable to secure victories over Wright State University, the fourth and final school competing in the dual meet.

On the women’s side, the Musketeers performed well in the 1000 meter freestyle, placing three swimmers in the top four.

Sophomore Mackenna Rife finished first while freshmen Emily Wagner and Heidi Turner took home third and fourth place, respectively.

The women’s team swept the top four spots in the 200-meter backstroke, with junior Carolyn Stewart touching the wall ahead of junior Jacquelyn Misanik, sophomore Kristen Liebert and Wagner.

Sophomore Claire Brolsma enjoyed her return home to the Hoosier state with a victory in the 50-meter freestyle.

The men’s team picked up multiple victories of its own at the invitational. Senior Chad Thompson finished first in the 200-meter freestyle event with a time of 1:54.60.

The Musketeers added another top-place finish in the 400-meter freestyle relay behind juniors Armando Moss and Eric Dirvin, freshman Rodrigo Suriano and sophomore Luke Johanns.

Not to be outdone by their elder teammates, Suriano and fellow freshman Nick Strader each secured victories in their first collegiate swimming events.

Suriano touched first in the 100-meter freestyle while Strader was victorious in the 1000-meter freestyle.

Both the men’s and women’s teams will return to the pool on Oct. 11 when they travel south to square off against nationally-ranked University of Louisville.