New swimmers coming to Eastern

Sean Hastings, Staff Reporter

Eastern swim coach Jacqueline Michalski has recently signed her first recruit, signing Lauren Oostman from Normal Community High School in Bloomington who will be on the team next year for the 2015-2016 season.

Michalski is happy with the signing of Oostman.

Michalski describes her as having a strong personality, very driven and a very motivated swimmer.

“Lauren will add some depth to our women’s squad in the backstroke, plus she also has a strong background and knowledge of swimming, with a positive can-do attitude that will also serve her very well,” Michalski said in a press release.

Oostamn just finished up her senior year swim season last weekend and was able to qualify for the state meet this coming weekend.

Last weekend Oostman got career best times in her races. She got a time of 58.80 in her 100-backstroke and a 55 low in her 100- freestyle at sectionals. Her backstroke time was good enough to secure her a spot at state this weekend.

Oostman also shows excitement in coming to Eastern.

“What really sold me to go to Eastern was the atmosphere of the student body, especially the athletes. I also liked the bond between the coach and her swimmers,” Oostman said in a press release. “That’s the kind of bond I like to have with my coaches and professors.”

She said her biggest influence comes from her dad.

“He was a collegiate swimmer and he knows all about the sport, so I can always talk to him when I need to, plus he has always been there for me and continues to help push me past my limits in the pool,” she said.

While at Eastern, Oostman is planning on majoring in athletic training.

Another recruit that will be coming to Eastern is verbal commit Leo Garofalo. Garofalo went to Creighton Prep High School in Omaha, Nebraska.

Michalski is also happy about the signing of Garofalo.

“He is going to add good depth in our 100 and 50-free,” Michalski said. “He is a good sprinter, and he’s a really good, down to earth kid.”

Garofalo will be joining the team for next year’s 2015-2016 season.

Sean Hastings can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].