The men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams hosted their final dual meet of the season against the Delaware Blue Hens last Friday.

For many of the teams’ seniors, competing in the last home meet of their careers brought bittersweet emotions.

“I am excited for the intense competition at the Big East Championship, but will be sad to see it end,” Captain Caitlin Regan said.  It has been such a positive experience to be a part of such a great group of people.”

Senior co-captain of the men’s team Kiel Costella agreed. “I am going to miss this sport, which has been such a big part of my life since I was eight years old,” he said. “However, I think I am ready to move onto life without 6 a.m. practices.”

Both the men’s and women’s team made strong showings against Delaware. Several seniors made it a memorable last meet, including Costella, who took third and second in the 1,000-meter and 500-meter freestyles, and Joey Mechak, who won the 200-meter butterfly. Other notable finishes included Chris Jordan in the 200-meter backstroke and Tom Maughan, who successfully qualified for the Big East Championships in the 200-meter freestyle.

Despite placing in these races, the men lost to the Blue Hens, 213.5-82.5.

The women were victorious over Delaware with help from Regan and Jesse Radtke. The team defeated Delaware, 180-120.

Only three weeks and one dual meet remain before the Big East Championships.

“We have worked really hard all season,” co-captain Mechak said. “I think we are all excited to see all the hard work pay off with some fast swimming.”

Both the men’s and women’s teams will travel to Syracuse, N.Y., on Saturday to take on the Orangemen. – A.G.