Air Force Academy

June 26, 2008

USAFA, Colo. - Eleven athletes comprise the incoming women's swimming Class of 2012, as announced by head coach Casey Converse. The latest group of Falcons, which includes swimmers from seven different states, arrived at the Academy today.

"We look forward to the contributions of these young women to our team and to the Academy at large," said Converse. "I believe we will see an immediate impact on our squad, especially in the sprint events."

"Elvira Chiccarelli, Allison Ceranski, Lauren Delaney and Cassie Fletcher should make an immediate impact on relays," continued Converse. "Heather Ireland, Julie Grabarek and Katherine Ernst will add much needed depth in their specialties. Each of these swimmers has lots of upside potential, having been involved in many activities in high school. We are also pleased to have Sarah Sauter, who we consider to have tons of potential. We look for lots of growth for her as an athlete with specific year-round training."

Listed below is the complete incoming class of 2012:

• Alison Ceranski, Marinette, Wis. (Marinette HS) -- Sprint Free
• Elvira Chiccarelli, Destin, Fla. (Destin College Prep) -- Butterfly and Freestyle
• Lauren Delaney, Panama City, Fla. (Mosley HS) -- Freestyle and Backstroke
• Katherine Ernst, Folsom, Calif. (Folsom HS) -- Butterfly
• Cassie Fletcher, Durham, N.C. (Southview Academy) -- Sprint Free
• Kali Fletcher, Durham, N.C. (Southview Academy) -- Sprint Free and Backstroke
• Julie Grabarek, Laguna Niguel, Calif. (Dana Hills HS) -- Mid-Distance Freestyle
• Heather Ireland, Coronado, Calif. (Coronado HS) -- Backstroke
• Alexis Laleman, East Moline, Ill. (United Township HS) -- Backstroke and Butterfly
• Rachel Reeder, St. Thomas, Pa. (St. Thomas HS) -- Mid-Distance Freestyle
• Sarah Sauter, Eaton, Colo. (Eaton HS) -- Backstroke and Butterfly