Auburn’s Men’s and Women’s National Championship Teams Honored
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AUBURN, Ala, September 27. AUBURN'S 2003 NCAA Men's and Women's Swimming and Diving Championship teams were honored Friday afternoon in a ceremony at the James E. Martin Aquatics Center. The festivities kicked off with a performance from several members of the men and women's diving team.
Eight senior swimmers from the 2003 championship teams addressed a packed aquatics center crowd, including members of the Auburn board of trustees and administration.
There are so many incredible memories," commented Maggie Bowen. "I have a family in Mississippi but being a part of the Auburn family is very special to me. I have pride in swimming for Auburn and in front of this great crowd of supporters."
"Four years ago the seniors walked through that door and we have seen a lot of things happen," Brad Knueven said. "What happened here last year was absolutely magical. We not only won a national championship but we won in an unprecedented fashion."
"My pride for this school goes very deep," said Andy Haidinyak. "It is not something I talk much about. The memories of last year will live in my heart forever. For as long as I live my blood will run orange and blue!"
The Tigers' coaching staff expressed their appreciation to the team and the Auburn fans. Kim Brackin, co-head women's coach, Jeff Shaffer, head diving coach and head swimming coach David Marsh spoke briefly.
"Each of these swimmers have great stories to tell which could take hours," David Marsh said. "Tomorrow at halftime, the team will open their national championship rings for the first time ever. They haven't seen them yet, only I have taken a look. The Auburn fans will get to enjoy the moment of first seeing the rings with them. I am so proud of these swimmers. They are great representatives of our university and I know they will go on in their lives to do great things."
The festivities concluded with the unveiling of the NCAA Championship banners and an autograph session.
Both teams will participate in Tiger Walk, prior to the Auburn-Western Kentucky football game Saturday. At halftime, the teams will be recognized in a special ceremony where they will receive heirChampionship rings.