Julian Fletcher’s Southern Methodist University Men's Swimming and Diving team has a new league for 2013-14 but the goal is the same.
They are aiming for their 17th Conference Championship in the last 18 years. Southern Methodist University returns two All-Americans, nine All-Conference USA selections and 23 letterwinners as it seeks to claim the first American Athletic Conference Championship this winter.
Head Coach Eddie Sinnott begins his 25th season on the Hilltop, having been named conference Coach of the Year 16 times. During his tenure, Southern Methodist University have had 11 NCAA top-15 finishes, 337 All-America honors and 237 conference champions.
"Our goal every year is to raise a banner on our way to qualifying for the NCAA Championships," Sinnott said. "Going into the new American Athletic Conference presents an exciting new challenge for our program."
Southern Methodist University will be led by senior captain Nicolai Hansen. For them to succeed in the American, Southern Methodist University needs to capitalize on the fundamentals of speed and strength, Coach Sinnott explained.
"Our mantra for this season is `bigger, faster, stronger'," Sinnott said. "Nicolai has done an outstanding job thus far leading our team. He is very motivated and has led by example and always has a great attitude; it is fun to see."
Hansen is one of nine seniors including Fletcher. This is a "strong group of individuals" Sinnott said, noting that there is a senior in every event except diving.
Hansen and senior Ryan Koops return with All-America honors they earned as part of the 14th place 400-yard Freestyle Relay team.
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