Consistency is almost never shown on a stat sheet.
The stability and deep-seeded connections between Ohio diving coach Russ Dekker and the Bobcats’ four divers have been at times overlooked.
“They’re a fantastic group of girls,” Dekker said. “They are one of the best group of girls I’ve coached my time here. I have a great relationship with them, they are very coachable and they have created a fun, enjoyable environment this year.”
That relationship between Dekker and the divers Haliegh Bartlett, Morgan Srail, Kristin Capcik and MaryRose Hillstrom, however, will be in the driver seat for the NCAA Zone Championships this weekend in Columbus.
Bartlett, a junior who will not travel with team, sustained a foot injury before Ohio’s 156-144 loss to Akron on Jan. 25 and has continued to recover.
Dekker said that Bartlett means a lot to the team and has led by example throughout her career.
“She always says ‘thank you’ to me after every practice. I’ve never had a diver do that,” Dekker said. “It’s really made me thank her and the rest of the girls for showering me their dedication.”
Despite a year of turmoil from the swimming contingent, the divers have completed a profound 2013-14 season, which included Srail winning the three-meter dive event at the Mid-American Conference Championships and Dekker receiving MAC diving coach of the year honors.
“It’s a big honor,” Dekker said. “I’m proud of them and what they have accomplished this season. Really, it was one of their goals this season to get me this (award) and it’s always great to accomplish a long-term goal.”
Dekker, who has been part of Ohio’s coaching staff for a decade, mentioned a difference in the team since former head coach Greg Werner was fired earlier this season.
“We just try to focus on our side of the sport,” Dekker said. “Obviously losing Greg has affected everyone. I think the swimmers are a little more affected by his absence, he played a big role here. We just try to do our own thing and look forward to completing our season goals.”
He continued to say the diving quartet is one of the best group of girls he’s coached in his time here, and he is hoping the team can obtain more MAC titles in the future.
lr514812@ohiou.edu
@lukeoroark
