NORTHFIELD, Vt. — Former Massabesic swimming standout Elaine Dudley has already made an impact at Norwich University, emerging as one of the Great Northeast Athletic Conference’s most talented swimmers.

Dudley was one of Maine’s top swimmers during her Massabesic tenure. As a Mustang, Dudley finished 22-0 in her dual meets, and also helped Massabesic break school records in the 400 free and 200 medley relay. She would later cap off her high school career by winning state titles in the 200 and 100 free during her senior year, leading the Mustangs to a third-place finish at states.

Dudley has continued to shine during her freshman season, catching the eye of other university’s in the conference.

She was recently named the GNAC’s rookie of the week for the seventh time, as well as the athlete of the week for the fourth time this season. Dudley has also helped Norwich break school records along the way.

“It’s always a good feeling to receive honors and break records because I work hard everyday and it pays off,” said Dudley. “But at the same time I know my potential goes further. I have greatly improved this year compared to last but I still feel I have more to go.”

Dudley has been proud of her performance, and has accepted the challenge of competing at the next level.

“College swimming is definitely more of a challenge than high school. We are kept up at a higher standard, practices are harder, and coaches are more serious,” said Dudley. “I also feel the training I am doing outside of the pool with the Corps of Cadets has also helped with my huge improvements.”

The Cadets will continue to grind down the stretch, and Dudley has confidence that she and her team can make some noise.

“We have NEISDA’s coming up in February and that will be our last meet. I have a good feeling about how well the team’s going to do,” said Dudley. “The ladies have had an amazing season.”

— Associate Sports Editor Alex Sponseller can be reached at asponseller@journaltribune.com or at 282-1535 ext. 323. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.

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