Men's Swimming Signs Stellar Class
November 21, 2007 | Swimming & Diving
Nov. 21, 2007
The University of Louisville men's swimming and diving team added five recruits for the fall of 2008 during the early signing period announced Arthur Albiero, U of L head coach. Joining the Cardinals for the 2008-2009 campaign will be Brendon Andrews of West Palm Beach, Fla., Richard "Tim" Collins of New Albany, Ohio, Doug Dietrich of Aspinwall, Pa., Adam Isaacs of Edgewood, Ky., and Andrew Talle of Dublin, Ohio.
"Each year we strive to add to the previous year's success, and this year is no different. We are proud to have compiled such an outstanding class for the fall of 2008. Each and every one of these young men brings an intense and burning desire to help propel our team to new heights. What is most exciting about this class is their talent, passion and eagerness to learn," said Albiero.
Brendon Andrews , a multiple time High School All-American, comes to the Ville via the Lake Lytal Lighting Swim Team and John I. Leonard High School where he was coached by his father, Gordon Andrews. Brendon's sister, Sarah, is a freshman for the Cardinals.
"Brendon is one of the top freestyle talents in the country, and will add significantly to our relays and sprint/mid-distance contingent. Brendon has had a breakout summer and fall and we watch with much anticipation as he finishes his prep career. He has only begun to scratch the surface of his full potential," said Albiero.
Tim Collins joins the Cardinals by way of Steve Nye's Greater Columbus Swim Team of Ohio, and 1988 Olympic Silver Medalist and former World Record holder Dave Wharton's New Albany High School Swim Team. Tim placed 6th this past summer in the 100-meter butterfly at the USA Swimming Junior National Championships, narrowly missing an Olympic Trial qualifying time.
"Tim brings a mental toughness and determination to succeed that is only matched by his ability and talent in the water," said Albiero "He will be an invaluable asset to our team."
Doug Dietrich, a 2008 Olympic Trials qualifier in the 200-meter butterfly, comes from Mt. Lebanon Aqua Club under the tutelage of Head Coach Don Wagner. He will add depth in the butterfly events. He competed at both the USA Swimming National Championships and Junior National Championships this past August.
"Doug is one of the top butterflyers in the country right now at the High School level. We look forward to having him joining our program and having an immediate impact in an already competitive group of flyers here at Louisville," said Albiero. "After an impressive summer, Doug's experience at the national level will help as he moves in the collegiate ranks."
Adam Isaacs comes to Louisville from Jason Roberts' Northern Kentucky Clippers. Adam follows in the footsteps of his older sister, Cardinal swim alumni, Ann Isaacs. Adam, a Kentucky Governor's Scholar, competed at the USA Swimming Junior National Championships over the summer and is a U.S. Open qualifier in the 100-meter backstroke.
"Adam is one of the top backstrokers in the state. He is also an outstanding and diligent student. His work ethic in the pool and the classroom will be invaluable to the success of our program," said Albiero. "We work extremely hard to keep the top talent in the state of Kentucky here in Louisville; with Adam on board, that trend continues."
Andrew Talle is the final member of the early fall signing class. Talle joins the Cards from the Greater Columbus Swim Team of Ohio under Head Coach Steve Nye. Andrew competed this past August at the USA Swimming Junior National Championships in Indianapolis, Ind.
"Andrew made great strides over the summer, and will have an impact in the backstroke events," said Albiero. "His personality and athletic ability are the right fit for our program."
"Overall this is one of the strongest classes we have had since I have been here at the University of Louisville. We are eager to get these young men here so we can get to work," concluded Albiero.
