Reno, Nev.-  The University of Idaho Swimming and Diving Team left Nevada with a new school record and a lot to look forward to after Saturday's performances.

Vandal Senior, Amanda Morrow's performance of 233.5 in the 1-meter diving event replaced Jennifer Hunkele's 23-year-old score at the top of Idaho's all-time list.  The record came in Morrow's third competition ever, after joining the dive team in the fall for its first season since coming back to Idaho.  Head Coach Tom Jager is pleased with how the diving program has progressed in its inaugural season he said.

“Qiong Jie has been doing a great job so far, but the divers are really stepping up and taking on those risks,” Jager said, “because diving is so much about just taking those risks and making the dives.”

Stephanie Cox was another Vandal to step up Saturday in only her second 1-meter diving competition.  With a score of 212.05 the freshman moved into fourth place all-time at Idaho for the contest.

Katie Hendricks gave the Vandals their first ever win at Reno in any event with her performance in the 50-yard freestyle.  The freshman's time of 24.56 came in just ahead of her teammate, Staci Stratton, who touched the wall at 24.71, to help the Vandals go 1-2 in the event.

“When we were down here two years ago we didn't win a race, we didn't even come close.  That's the kind of progress we've made,” Jager said, “Katie and these younger girls are really helping that progress.”

Samantha Hammerly looked better than she has all year, Jager said.  Hammerly swam to a 4:47.13 second place finish in the 400 IM along with a third place finish in the 50-yard breaststroke with a 32.10.

The hard work the team put in to get in shape for the season is now paying off and will make the rest of the season easier, Jager said.

“I'm really happy with the shape the team has gotten into this year,” Jager said.  “Now for the rest of the season they can just have fun with it and swim.”

The Vandals will look to continue the fun after Christmas break on Jan. 23, when they will host Washington State University.