All-American Swimmer Transfers to Missouri
7/23/2001 12:00:00 AM | Women's Swimming and Diving
July 23, 2001
COLUMBIA, Mo.- Missouri Head Swimming and Diving Coach Brian Hoffer announced Monday that All-American swimmer REBECCA WOLFE has transferred to the University of Missouri. Wolfe joins the Tigers after spending her freshman year at the University of Nebraska where she was an All-American and Big 12 champion in the 200 butterfly. Missouri has not had an All-American in the last 20 years and has not had a Big 12 champion.
A native of League City, Texas, Wolfe chose Missouri over defending Big 12 Champion, the University of Texas. Wolfe fills a huge void in the butterfly, perhaps the Tigers' weakest event over the last three years. Wolfe also swims the 400 individual medley, an event that she placed third in at the Big 12 Championships last year. She also finished fifth in the 500 freestyle.
"Rebecca is someone who knows how to win," said Hoffer. "Her experience should help take our program to another level."
Wolfe was a 2000 Olympic Trials qualifier. She is also an Academic All-American.
"It came down to Missouri being the best fit for Rebecca," added Hoffer. "She has a great work ethic and is an academic standout."
Wolfe is not the only former Nebraska swimmer transferring to Missouri. MOLLY CHRISTENSEN, a native of Woodbury, Minn., will join Wolfe in Columbia. Christensen, who will also be a sophomore, will provide depth in the butterfly, backstroke and individual medley events.
"I am excited to watch Molly develop in our program over the next three years," said Hoffer. "She adds depth in several events and is an outstanding student."
In addition to the two transfers, Missouri signed eight talented freshmen in the 2001 recruiting class. The Tigers return 15 letterwinners from last year's squad that finished fourth in the Big 12 Conference, MU's best finish in school history.
"With the additions of Rebecca and Molly, I have to think this is one of the best recruiting classes in the country," said Hoffer. "It is really an exciting time for the Missouri swimming and diving program."
