TACOMA, Wash. - After a tough week of training in Oxnard, California over winter break, the Pacific Lutheran University women's swimming team is splashing back into race mode this weekend, hosting the University of Alaska on Saturday.
 
Senior Whitney Mundle completed her fourth and final training trip last week, noting how the consecutive days of challenging practices wore down her teammates. However, the Lutes bounced back into regular training this week, and are ready to race the clock yet again.
 
"This weekend will be a great opportunity to race against a new team that we haven't swam against before," Mundle said. "We're all excited to get back into the pool and start racing again."
 
In her fourth season as a Lute swimmer, Mundle continues to be impressed with the training ethic and positivity of her teammates. Especially during long and difficult sets, the team actively works to lift each other's spirits and push their bodies to the limit.
 
"The training this year has been unlike anything I've experienced in past years," Mundle said. "No matter what the set is, the atmosphere stays positive and encouraging which helps us make it through those tough sets."
 
One month out from the end of her collegiate swimming career, Mundle reflected on how her four years as a Lute swimmer shaped her college experience. She believes every teammate played a vital role in impacting her personal growth, and she is incredibly grateful to be a part of the amazing team and community.
 
Mundle is excited for the chance to race a team outside of the Northwest Conference, and hopes to see the usual fun, on-deck atmosphere.
 
"I'm looking forward to having high energy on deck, lots of cheering, and plenty of smiles around the pool!" Mundle said. 
 
Action against the Division II Nanooks starts at 12 p.m. inside the PLU Pool.