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The second annual RECONNECT event was held this past weekend (April 4-5). There were a record number of alumni and guests including including members of the 1965 and 1975 Mens NCAA National Championship team. Members of the 1975 Womens team were there as well, to receive recognition of important achievements in Womens athletics.

The weekend began with a meet-up at the "The Dungeon" for some socializing and photo-ops. Afterwards, guests made their way to "Town and Gown" for the USC Swimming and Diving Year End Banquet. While there were plenty of awards all around, the bulk of them were given to the student athletes sitting at Rob Orr's table. He was quick to claim victory and credit.

As is customary, RECONNECT was held over the same weekend as the Swim With Mike event which is always a great experience that no one should miss. Several alumni participated in the Masters workout on Saturday morning. Part of the fun is see the former swimmers attempt to squeeze into a swim suit - a violation to the eyes. I believe there were some police citations to some alums for being "40 years over the Speedo limit".

RECONNECT concluded with the luncheon at McKay's. We were fortunate to have the likes of Tim Tessalone emcee the activities which included special recognition of the 1965 and 1975 Men's National Championship teams.

The 1975 Women's team was acknowledged for so many "first" in women's athletics at USC. They were well represented including Pokey Watson-Richardson (Coach), Linda Stimpson (Swimmer), and Barbara Hedges (former Associate USC athletics director).

There was one "unofficial" activity that was held in keeping with former team tradition - A Tommy's run.

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Beginning in 2024, a new series of Trojan Swimmer events began with a tribute to Peter Daland of his former swimmers held at the old PE Building's pool otherwise known as the Dungeon Pool:

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Please join your fellow Trojan alumni and supporters for the 2023-2024 USC Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving “Reconnect” Weekend!

Events begin Friday, April 5^th with our Alumni Social at the Dungeon Pool, followed by the team banquet on campus at Town and Gown – we will also honor the 1964 and 1974 National Championship men’s teams. Saturday, we will honor Kerri and Fred Uytengsu and the 1974 Men’s Swim national championship team at the 43^rd Annual Swim with Mike event at USC. This will be followed by a 1973/74 National Championship Team Dinner.

The first reconnect event was attended by over Reconnect24 was attended by over 100 alumni representing USC’s men and women’s swimming and diving teams. The longest traveler was Steve Cameron who joined the event from his home in Costa Rica.  The following events are captured in the pictures and videos within the tabs above.

Friday April 5th

Alumni Social/ “Team Meeting” at the Dungeon Pool

Alumni shared memories with teammates, coaches, managers, and friends of USC Swimming and Diving. Alumni were transported back in time by attending a “Team Meeting in the Dungeon" hosted by USC Swimming coaches Dr. James “Jim” Dennis and Rob Orr. They shared Peter and Pokey stories and sayings such as “Strength is Power is Speed”..

USC Swim & Diving Team Banquet in the Town and Gown Ballroom.  Alumni joined USC’s current Men’s and Women’s teams and coaching staff in celebrating USC’s 2023-24 season. USC’s 1974 Men’s and 1964 National Championship Teams were honored. Alumni meet at the “Lab” to share stories and drinks after the banquet

Saturday April 6th

Swim with Mike

Alumni and team members joined the Swim With Mike activities. They spent time on deck with the team and coaches as well as old teammates. Many alumni joined a Master’s Workout run by USC Swimming coaches and current team members. A complimentary lunch was provided by Jersey Mike’s. The Trojan Marching Band and cheer leaders joined the festivities during the recognition ceremony for the 1964 and 1974 Men’s National Championship Teams. Kerri and Fed Uytengsu were honored with the “Making A Difference Award”

The 1974 National Championship Team was celebrated at McKay’s Swimming and Diving Alumni gathered to celebrate the 1974 Men’s National Championship Team and their undefeated 1973-74 season. Alumni relived an epic 1-point victory over heavily favored Indiana University and met Lea, Megan and the coaching staff.