ATHENS, Ga. – FIU diver Paige Burrell added the 3-meter springboard to her NCAA program Monday on the second day of competition at the 2024 NCAA Zone B Diving Championships at Bauerle Pool at Gabrielsen Natatorium.

Burrell scored a 605.40 in the finals for an eighth place finish.  After qualifying in the 1-meter on Sunday, a top-12 finish automatically punched her ticket to compete in the 3-meter at the NCAA Championships next week. In prelims, Burrell ranked 16th with a score of 283.80.

"I think Paige did a phenomenal job this competition. There are some things to work on here and there but overall, Paige did a fantastic job," head diving coach Josh Larcom said. "Really trusted not only herself but the work she has put in leading up to this meet. Her qualifying for NCAAs yesterday took a huge weight off her shoulders and she could really just enjoy today while having fun. Extremely proud of her and looking forward to the big dance next week!"

In addition, her eighth place finish on the 3-meter is the best finish for the graduate student's zone meet career. Prior, Burrell placed 16th at the 2023 NCAA Zone B Championships 3-meter final.

It marks the first time in Burrell's career she will compete in the 3-meter and both springboard events at the upcoming NCAA Championships, slated for March 20-23 in Athens, Georiga.

Elsewhere in prelims, graduate student Mikaela Starr closed out her collegiate diving career, posting a 230.15 for a 41st place finish.

UP NEXT
The NCAA Zone B Championships continue tomorrow with the women's platform events as sophomore Ruska Lehtonen will compete. The women's session begins at 3:15 p.m and finals are slated for 4:55 pm..The top seven finalists in the event will automatically qualify for NCAAs. 

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