Rockhurst men's swimming and diving kicks off their second season in program history at Nebraska-Omaha on Friday at 6 p.m. in Omaha, Nebraska. Less than a day later, the men's swimming and diving team takes on Midland in Fremont, Nebraska on Saturday morning at 11 a.m.

During the team's inaugural season last year, the Hawks won five meets, including their first-ever dual meet against Nebraska-Omaha in Omaha, and their first-ever tri-meet against Maryville and Quincy in Quincy, Illinois.

Head coach Doug Schranck looks forward to seeing his returners grow from last season.

"I'm very excited to see how our returners can do with some experience under their belt," Schranck said. They now have a better idea of what to expect."

The Hawks return 10 student-athletes from a year ago, led by sophomore Mohannad Nada. He set several individual school records (100 and 200 breaststroke, 200 and 400 IM) and five relay events (200, 400 and 800 freestyle, 200 and 400 medley).

Nada was also the first Rockhurst swimmer to ever capture GLVC Athlete of the Week on Nov. 8, 2023.

Jonathan Davis, who set the school records in 1-meter diving and 3-meter diving, returns.

Ali Usama (6), Adam Hamdy (6), Omar Abla (6), Alexandre Adum (5) and Omar Mohsen (2) also set new school records a season ago and are back for the Hawks this year.

The Hawks welcome six newcomers to the team this season. With the returning core group and newcomers, Schranck likes the nucleus of this year's team.

"This is a talented and ambitious group that works very hard," Schranck said. "They all want to push each other to be the best. We are fortunate to have a lot of competition within the team that motivates one another."

Schranck believes several of his men could reach the NCAA Championships.

"Last season, we just missed out on qualifying any swimmers for the NCAA Championships," Schranck said. "This year, I would not be surprised if we have five or more go to the meet. It will be challenging, but we are ready to work for it."