University of Maryland Swimming and Diving Signs Two Men for 2007-08 Season
11/8/2006 7:00:00 AM | Men's Swimming & Diving
Nov. 8, 2006
Andy Mears (Sterling, Va.) and Nick Cordes (Cedar Falls, IA) have committed to the University of Maryland for the 2007-08 season, signing National Letters of Intent today Wednesday, November 8, 2006.
Andy Mears:
Andy Mears (Sterling, Va.) is a Virginia All-American State champion in the 100-yard freestyle and a NCSA Junior National finalist in the 200 free. He will graduate from Potomac Falls High School and currently swims for Curl Burke Swim Club. His primary events and career bests include: 50 free (21.97), 100 free (47.1), 200 free (1.42.03), and 500 free (4.38.13). Mears says that he chose Maryland because "The coaches captivated me with the idea that Maryland is building up their swim team, and that is something that I very much want to be a part of. Fear the turtle!"
Coach Durden on Mears: "Andy comes from a solid club environment in Curl Burke under the direction of John Flanagan. As a coach, this foundation will translate to a great college career for Andy and we look forward to working with him come next fall. Andy is another athlete that has great range in his events that will impact our team on many levels."
Nick Cordes:
Nick Cordes (Cedar Falls, IA) is a 2006 Iowa State champion in the 50-yard freestyle, 100 backstroke, 200 medley relay and 200 free relay. Cordes competed at the Junior National Championships in the 50 and 100 meter freestyle and the 100 meter backstroke this past August finishing second in the 50 free with a senior national time standard of 23.58 LCM. Nick's career bests include: 50 free (20.55), 100 free (45.48), 100 back (50.28) and 100 fly (50.28).
Coach Durden on Cordes: "With Nick being the second fastest sprint freestyler in the nation, his impact on our program will be immediate. Our staff's short term goal was to redefine our sprint program to one that is consistent with success at the national level. Throughout this process, Nick has understood that goal and it is the big reason why he selected Maryland as the place for him to go after his dreams in this sport. With Nick Lakin's continued guidance, Nick will be set up for a great senior year."
