AUBURN, Alabama (March 12, 2019) - Today
Maha Gouda made program history. The freshman is the first FIU diver to ever qualify for the NCAA from a springboard event.
"Today FIU Divers made history. This is the first time we make it to the NCAA on springboard and with a freshman," said Head Diving Coach
Rio Ramirez.
After seeding number 16 in preliminary competition with a score of 280.10, the rookie diver went on to secure her spot on the big stage. Gouda posted a finals score of 566.30 from the 1-meter; advancing her to the NCAA competition on March 20-23.
"I am happy with her performance and character. There is room for improvement but we are on the right track," said Ramirez.
Sophomore
Rachel Foord also joined Gouda at the 1-meter finals competition. Foord entered the competition with a score of 256.60 and ended the day at number 17 (520.10), a few spots shy of punching her NCAA ticket.
"Rachel did well even though she did not do her best list. I have certainty she will keep developing and sharpening her dives," said Ramirez.
The divers will get one more chance to qualify and a hopeful Ramirez is looking forward to what the Platform event may bring tomorrow.
"Good things are in the horizon we just need to bring them," said Ramirez.
Preliminary action from the Platform begins at 11 a.m. ET and the finals competition is set for 1 p.m. ET
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
**All times (ET)
Wednesday, March 13
11 a.m. – Women's platform prelims
1 p.m. – Women's platform finals (18 divers)
3:15 p.m. – Men's platform prelims
5:15 p.m. – Men's platform finals (18 divers)
Number of Qualifying Spots for Zone B:
Women:
1M - Top 9 Finishers
3M - Top 8 Finishers
Platform - Top 6 Finishers
Live stats will be broadcasted on Divemeet.com or click here to follow.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Get all the latest information on the team by following on Twitter (@FIUSwimDive), Facebook @FIUSwimmingandDiving) and on Instagram (@FIU_Swim_Dive). General athletic news can also be found at @FIUSports on Facebook and @FIUAthletics on Twitter and Instagram.
