by Lorenzo Serrato, Sports Editor

New to Aquinas this year are the additions of both Men’s and Women’s Swimming, and Men’s and Women’s Rugby programs. Each program will join the NAIA, and athletes will have the opportunity to receive scholarships for athletic participation.

Former professional Rugby player Lance Hohaia has been announced as the Men’s Rugby head coach, while former USA Rugby Women’s National Team member Laura Miller will take over the women’s team. As for swimming, both programs will be led by head coach Kristy Kinzer, a former standout and All-American at Calvin University.

President Quinn is also thrilled about these new additions for the 2021-22 season.

“We anticipate that this will boost participation in already popular programs on campus as well as attract new students to all the unique offerings of our outstanding institution,” Quinn stated.

These programs join the newly acclimated Esports and men’s volleyball teams from a few years back.

I caught up with head coach Kristy Kinzer and learned more about her excitement for the upcoming Swimming campaign.

“AQ Men’s & Women’s Swimming is kicking off our inaugural season this fall, using the East Grand Rapids High School pool as our home base for training and competition,” Kinzer said, “We are the first NAIA program in Michigan. We will have 11 women and 6 men, coming from all over the globe – IL, MI, KS, WA, and France. The season starts on Monday, August 30th, and will conclude in mid-February”.

All students are invited to their first swim meet on Saturday, October 2nd, at 1pm, as the Saints battle Davenport and Bethel University. Stay connected by following @aqswimming on Instagram along with checking the Aquinas Athletics website!