Illinois States swimming and diving team signed two new athletes for the 2005-06 season, with the addition of Illinois natives Jessica Bains and Kathleen Borkovec.
After losing five seniors the diving team has brought in Jessica Bains. The homegrown student-athlete competed at Normal Community High School for three years and was a three-time state qualifier. Bains started her athletic career as a competitive gymnast, who turned to diving because of a friends encouragement. Bains has been diving ever since.
It is always fun to have another local athlete, head coach
Steve Paska said. With the new girls and the current girls we are trying to remain stable, and continue to control our performance. Jessica is very energetic and knows that there is work ahead of her. She is going to learn from the bottom up.
Borkovec comes to Illinois State as a sophomore, already having experience in the prestigious Southeastern Conference at Arkansas. The Bensenville, Ill. product has also been a Speedo Sectional Qualifier for the last four years in freestyle.
Katie is a versatile swimmer and has had a solid career, Paska said. She is a strong freestyle swimmer with passion and focus. With her flexibility, she will be able to fill roles in relay events.
Bains and Borkovec will be making their Illinois State debut on September 30.
