MOORHEAD, Minn. — The Minnesota State University Moorhead women's swimming and diving team opens the 2018-19 regular season on Sunday with a dual at the University of Mary.

The Dragons are entering their first season under the direction of Head Coach Charlie King.

"We are excited to start the year off with great leadership," King said. "Our first-year athletes are proving to have the ability to contribute early.  Moving into the meet season we are looking to create an environment where everyone contributes."
Even though MSUM must replace All-American Erin Sullivan, the team does return experience from a year ago.

Senior Taylor Beynon led the team in wins (26) and points scored in 2017-18.  She has 58 career wins and is fourth all-time in points scored at MSUM. She was All-NSIC in three events last year. Beynon's strength

Junior Breah Anderson, a national qualifier in the 50 free, had 18 wins and scored 510.25 points last season. She was All-NSIC in the 100 IM last season and will lead the way in the sprint free events.

Senior Linnea Johnson was fourth on the team in points scored and will contribute in the freestyle events while Leticia Rodovalho was fifth; she had seven wins.

Junior Erin Fons, who won three events a year ago, looks to be strong in the 100 breaststroke. Sophomore Grace Moffat, who missed much of last season with an injury, and senior Megan Gates will contribute in the 500 and 1,000 free events. Freshman Kaitlin Winter also could factor in the 500 free.

The top returning diver is senior Amber Westereng, who had a pair of top four finishes in the diving events at the NSIC Championships.  Junior Noelle Berg also had a solid season a year ago in diving with five wins and six runner-up finishes.

MSUM's home opener is set for Oct. 19 vs. Northern State.