O'FALLON, Ill – McKendree university women's swim team opened their 2024-25 season with a dual meet against Southern Illinois University. 

Graduate student Sophia Burwitz had a strong debut as a Bearcat placing first in the 100 yard fly (56.25), second in the 200 yard fly (2:10.80), as well as helping the 200 yard medley (1:49.58) and 400 yard (3:31.19) relays place fifth and second respectively. 

Junior Jocelyn Zgola started the season strong with a trio of second place finishes in the 200 yard freestyle (1:53.88) , 500 yard freestyle (5:09.47) , and 400 yard relay (3:31.19) as well.  

Freshman Tumi Macdonell made her Bearcat debut as well placing third in the 50 yard freestyle (24.50) and third in the 100 yard freestyle (52.67). She also was a member of the 400 yard and 200 yard relay teams. 

Senior Karley Sonnenberg placed second in the 50 yard freestyle with a time of 24.33. 

The Bearcats ultimately fell to Southern Illinois with a score of 230-60 and are back in the pool in two weeks to compete against GLVC foes Missouri S&T and University of Indianapolis.