MONTCLAIR STATE UNIVERSITY WOMEN’S SWIMMING: A SEASON-ENDING PERFORMANCE THAT PROVES THEIR POWER

THE PRESS CENTER | THE ROCKY REWIND | SPORTS

FEBRUARY 8 2026 AT 6:54 PM

The Montclair State University Women’s Swimming & Diving team (7–3) closed out their regular season in New London, CT, with a tri-meet that showcased their grit, growth, and undeniable momentum. The Red Hawks delivered a commanding victory over Roger Williams (226–60) and battled fiercely against a strong Coast Guard squad, ultimately falling 158–134.

This meet wasn’t just about scores — it was a statement. Every athlete contributed. Every race mattered. And every performance reflected a team preparing to soar into the postseason with confidence.

HOW IT HAPPENED — WITH CLARITY AND CELEBRATION

Diving Dominance

• Audrey Hitchens opened the meet with a powerful second-place finish on the 1-meter board (187.05).
• Olivia Salmons followed closely in third (147.30), proving Montclair’s depth early.
• In the second diving session, Hitchens won the event with a score of 146.02, while Salmons secured another strong second-place finish (138.37). Affirmation: These performances show consistency, courage, and competitive fire — exactly what champions build on.

Relay Strength

• The 200 medley relay team — Abby Panzarella, Penelope Curran, Madeline Rogers, and Catty Geyer — delivered a solid 1:56.05, setting the tone for the swimmers to follow.

Distance Excellence

• Amelia Fanning claimed second in the 1000 free (11:14.17), demonstrating endurance and focus.
• Lily Conlon was right behind her in third (11:17.97), reinforcing Montclair’s strength in long-distance events.

Sprint & Mid-Distance Highlights

• Rourke Peralta earned second in the 200 free (1:59.86), then dominated the 50 free (24.55) and later the 100 free (54.49), securing two individual victories. Affirmation: Her speed is electric, her confidence unmistakable, and her leadership undeniable.

Backstroke & Breaststroke Breakthroughs

• Panzarella continued her strong day with third in the 100 back (1:02.90) and second in the 200 back (2:16.86).
• Marianne Tassinari delivered a standout meet, placing second in the 100 breast (1:10.94) and winning the 200 breast (2:31.29). Affirmation: Her hard work is transforming into results — visible, measurable, and inspiring.

Butterfly & IM Power

• Madeline Rogers took second in the 200 fly (2:14.36) and later added another second-place finish in the 100 fly (59.74).
• Tassinari capped her day with second in the 200 IM (2:18.01), showcasing her versatility.

500 Free & Final Relays

• Fanning added a third-place finish in the 500 free (5:29.32), closing her meet with determination.
• Montclair finished strong in the 200 free relay:
  • Peralta, Rogers, Rachel Yushan, and Tessa Devone claimed second (1:41.96).
  • Fanning, Ana Venla Saguillo Leppanen, Tassinari, and Panzarella secured third (1:46.17). Affirmation: Finishing strong is a hallmark of a team ready for championship season.

FROM THE POOL — A TEAM ON THE RISE

Head Coach Brian McLaughlin shared his excitement about the team’s trajectory: “Rourke had another great day, and Maddie Rogers is peaking at the right time. Marianne Tassinari is seeing her hard work pay off in several events now, which is fun to see. The team is excited to head to Virginia soon.”

Affirmation: This team is not just competing — they are evolving, sharpening, and stepping boldly into the next chapter.

SOURCE CREDIT: HTTPS://MONTCLAIRATHLETICS.COM/NEWS