Feb. 1, 2006
NORMAL, Ill. -
Illinois State senior diver Emily Hirt had another successful weekend on the boards that did not go unnoticed by the Missouri Valley Conference. The Mundelein, Ill. native was named Valley Diver of the Week for the second time this season, after placing first on both the one and three-meter boards last weekend against UW-Green Bay. Hirt's performance contributed to a win against the Phoenix in the Redbirds final meet before competing at the State Farm Missouri Valley Conference Championships.
Head diving coach Tom Davidson was pleased with her recognition.
"I am happy for her," said Davidson. "Emily dove real well for her senior meet. This honor allows for other coaches and teams to see what she has accomplished this season. She has really put in the hard work for herself and her team. All of the effort has paid off."
Hirt placed first on the one-meter board with a score of 255.52 and also placed first on the three-meter board with a score of 260.18. It was her fifth competition this season in which she placed first on both boards. Hirt has been a leader for the diving team this season and is excited to head into conference on such a positive note.
"I was pretty surprised," said Hirt. "This is truly a great honor, and I am looking forward to competing at the conference meet. It has been a great run, and I was able to end my college career with a solid performance."
Hirt also wanted to thank her coaches and teammates for supporting her in her final season as a Redbird.
"I am greatful for the experience and people on my team," said Hirt. "Kaitlin (Schneider) and I have been together for the entire four year journey. I am really glad that we were able to share all of our accomplishments together. I have also had a lot of support and encouragement from all of my teammates and coaches. I give them all a lot of credit."
Hirt and the "Birds finish the 2005-06 season in Carbondale, Ill. on February 16 at the three-day State Farm Missouri Valley Championships.
