KINGSTON, R.I.-- The University of Rhode Island's Club Swim team hosted the Pumpkin Plunge Invitational on Saturday at the Tootell Aquatic Center, welcoming four visiting programs, including Harvard University, Yale University, Northeastern University, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The afternoon meet brought together the five programs for hours of competitive swim races and enthusiastic team support. 

URI opened the meet with second-year team captain Eliza Smith and her teammates gathering around the pool for a loud "Go-Rhody" chant during their pre-meet huddle. The support continued throughout the afternoon, with swimmers cheering for their teammates during each event as the five programs competed while also maintaining the spirit of a club meet. 

Competing against a strong field, Rhode Island finished fifth among the five teams. The meet gave the Rams an opportunity to race against several highly competitive programs early in the season, giving the squad a benchmark on how to improve going forward. 

For the URI club swim team, camaraderie remains an important part of competing. The opportunity to race alongside teammates, support one another, and build connections with other club programs is what made the Pumpkin Plunge so special. With the Minutemen Zombie Apocalypse Invitational at UMass Amherst set for Oct. 18, the Rams will look to build on the experience while competing for the best placement and enjoying the camaraderie that comes with club meets.

By Gordon Billings