Women's Swimming Signs Another Recruit

PROVO -- The BYU women's swimming team announce the signing of another recruit for the 2002-03 season. Nikki Bates from Logan High School signed a letter of intent to add to next season's roster. Bates is a three-time state champion in backstroke and relay events. She holds numerous records in the region, high school and club levels in Utah. Bates was team captain, Logan High's "Swimmer of the Week" and "Athlete of the Month".

Bates is also an excellent student. She is a member of the National Honor Society and made the Honor Role during all four years of her high school career. She has also been a member of the Logan High Orchestra for four years.

Bates' coach and mother, Yolanda (Mendiola) Bates, was an NCAA qualifier during her career at BYU in late 70's and early 80's.

"I am very excited to work with Nikki," women's head swim coach Stan Crump said. "She has beautiful strokes and a tremendous work ethic. She is looking forward to getting into the weight room and getting stronger. I think she has the potential to make a very strong contribution right away for our program."

Other recruits for the 2002-03 season are:

1. Shannon Bloom - Hesperia, Calif.

2. Becky Pedersen - Vacaville, Calif.

3. Natasha Schlup - Newcastle, Wyo.

4. Julie Nelson - Castro Valley, Calif.

5. Aubrey Merrell - Normandy Park, Wash.

6. Aubrey Low - Dublin, Ohio