April 22, 2002

Chicago, Ill. - It was a fitting way to wrap-up the 2001-2002 University of Illinois at Chicago men's and women's swimming and diving season, as this season's edition of the Flames were honored with a brunch and banquet held at the lavish Chicago Athletic Association on Sunday.

Other than a fantastic view and delicious spread, hardware was also dished out for some select UIC swimmers and divers.

The morning started with rookie head coach Paul Moniak summarizing the season, which flourished into a large success, as the women's squad placed fourth at the Horizon League Championships and the men had several fast individual performances on the campaign.

Something Moniak failed to mention was the fact that he was selected, by his peers, as the Horizon League Women's Coach of the Year.

But the real story of the day was the student-athletes and their exploits in the pool this season.

Moniak, along with assistant coach Ina Harizanova and diving coach Larry Barcheski, recognized the seven seniors that will leave the program in much better shape than when they arrived.

The seven were: Andrea Bove, Stephanie Brane, Julie-Anne Chico, Shannon Joseph, Nakima Sepulveda, David Kimmerly and Paul Torres.

Recognized as the women's newcomer of the year was Alicia Perry, who impressed everyone this season in her first year of collegiate competition.

The men's newcomer of the year was Alex Marinof, a native of Greece and transfer from Northern Illinois.

Diving has always been a rock for the Flames, as Barcheski has guided the diving program to elite status in the Midwest.

Bove was selected as the women's diver the year after placing fifth in both boards at the league championships.

Michael Magee was named men's diver of the year following a season of success including a trip to the NCAA Zone C Diving Championships.

Freshman Christine Hare garnered women's swimmer of the year honors after a season full of highs, including breaking the school record in the 500-yard free before it was broken again by teammate Jamie Redway, and taking third in the 200-yard free at the league championships.

Things look awfully bright for the women's squad in the future with Hare and Perry in the mix for the Flames.

It was no surprise when Paul Torres was named men's swimmer of the year for UIC.

Arguably the finest swimmer in UIC history, Torres has been nothing short of spectacular for the Flames. This season, Torres won the league title in the 400-yard IM, while taking second in the 200-yard IM and 200-yard breaststroke.

The seed has been planted for the Flames to move into the elite of the Horizon League. With several young and talented athletes in the cupboard and the fine examples set by the departing seniors, UIC may find its name at the top of the league sooner than later with Moniak at the helm.