UF Divers Gain Experience at USA Diving National Championships
Tuesday, December 15, 2015 | Men's Swimming & Diving
Zach Hernandez and Sam Smith open Day One at USA Diving National Championships
INDIANAPOLIS -- University of Florida divers Zach Hernandez and Samuel Smith competed in their first-ever Synchronized 3-meter competition as a duo on Tuesday afternoon in Day One competition at the USA Diving Winter National Championships in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The Florida pair's five-dive set totaled 257.58 points, which ranked 14th overall. Hernandez and Smith opened up with a Reverse Dive Pike and were awarded 35.40 points and continued to move up from there.
The American duo's top score came in their fourth dive, an Inward 2 1/2 Somersault Pike for 55.80 points.
The Orange and Blue are scheduled to return to action Wednesday afternoon when senior Delaney Dye competes in the Women's Synchronized 3-Meter event. Dye will team up alongside Annie Weise (RipFest Diving Club).
Head Diving Coach Dale Schultz:
"Today was a case of nerves getting to our guys. It was their first time competing together on such a competitive and talented stage. They looked good, and prepared well, it was simply a case of the nerves getting to them come show time.
"Regardless of the outcome, today was a good experience for them and it will be a positive learning opportunity to benefit from as we get back to work and continue to move forward."
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