I'm writing in regards to the news of the cut of the Men's and Women's Swimming and Diving teams.

I grew up in Hanover, and was a member of the Hanover Swim Team/North Country Aquatic Club from the time I was 4 years old until I was 17. Through out the years, I can remember looking up to the members of the Dartmouth Swim Team. They were my role models for years. When I grew up, I wanted to be them. They helped out with our team, taught separate swim lessons, and were involved in many other ways with the community. That was what I saw, and I know there was so much more even though at the time I was too young to realize everything that they did.

I didn't know that they were involved in Fraternities and Sororities. I didn't know that they were campus leaders. I didn't know that they were in academic honor societies. All I knew, was that I wanted to be just like them, when I grew up. I wanted to swim in college. I wanted to be involved with kids in the community.

The Dartmouth Swimmers really played a role in shaping who I was as a child. They taught me much more than just how to swim. The Dartmouth Men's and Women's Swim Teams are much more than simply an athletic team. I am deeply saddened to think that the children in the town of Hanover will not be able to have a similar experience that I had growing up. Those men and women had a huge impact on my life.

I strongly disagree with the way in which this decision was announced to the men, women, and coaches. I also think some of the reasoning behind the decision was poor. To say that the pool is too old is silly. I've been to many many pools that are much smaller, and don't nearly have the facilities that Dartmouth has.

I feel so strongly about this decision to cut the team for many reasons which I won't even begin to go into. The point I want to stress in this letter, is what an impact these men and women have on the community in Hanover. These are strong, compassionate and intelligent individuals. They care about the community, and impact so many children's lives. It's a pity that the college felt the need to take such drastic steps.

I do hope you will reconsider, and explore other options.

Sincerely,

Becka Dresner