May 21, 2008

Fairfield, CT - Head coach Richard Ludeman has announced that the Sacred Heart swimming and diving team will welcome three new faces when the squad takes to the pool this fall. Joining the ranks of new Pioneer are Laurie Casado (Bellerose, NY), Meghan Bailey (Walpole, MA) and Allison Thurston (Berlin, CT).

Casado was a National YMCA Qualifier and All CHSAA selection while swimming for The Mary Louis Academy. She is expected to fill the void of Laura Johnson who was lost to graduation, according to Ludemann.

Bailey swam for the Attleboro Bluefish and was a teammate of current Pioneer Katie Marshall on the squad. "She will be a strong addition to the butterfly and mid distance freestyle events." Ludeman said.

Thurston is expected to be another strong contender in the IM events, taking over for the graduated Bridget McGowan.

The Pioneers will open their season on October 25th at Mount St. Mary's.