University of Minnesota Athletics
Men's Swimming Hands Out Awards at Annual Banquet
5/8/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Swimming & Diving
The Hardest Worker award went to senior captain Todd Smolinski and junior Justin Mortimer. Smolinski had four All-American honors at the national championships and a Big Ten Conference championship in the 100-yard backstroke. He was also a member of the conference title 200 and 400-yard medley relay teams. Mortimer gained three All-American accolades at nationals in the 500 and 1650-yard freestyle and was a member of the 800 free relay team. He also gained a Big Ten title in the 1650 free.
Minnesota's Most Improved Award went to Adam Mitchell and NCAA qualifier Travis Beckerle. The Iron Fish award, which goes to the hardest workers in the weight room, was awarded to Dustin Chalfant and Neil Osten. The Jerry McCaul award, which is given for enthusiasm, dedication and helping make the practice environment enjoyable, to Smolinski.
Eight members of the men's swimming and diving team were recognized as outstanding student-athletes. All eight of the members had a grade point average above 3.50. The eight included Travis Beckerle, Mike Brown, 2002 Academic All-American Brian Gettelfinger, Joseph Herriges, Bjorn Lundin, Michael Melrose, Allen Ong, and John Schmidt.
Players Mentioned
