The 2006 diving season concluded with a state runner-up finish, a sectional title, and two conference champions. Five seniors, led by All-American Michael Wright, brought the St. Patrick diving program it’s most successful year in school history. Now, with Wright diving at the collegiate level in Florida, the young Shamrocks try to keep the successful tradition alive.

Preparing for the Chicago Metro Catholic Conference Meet is freshman Austin McClure, and sophomores John Wilk and Nick Alamanza. Senior Kevin Nitsche leads the team. Nitsche broke into the diving world quickly and decisively since starting his career as a sophomore. Last Thursday, he set a personal best of 202.40 on his way to another first place finish. “Kevin has come a long way since his sophomore year,” coach Fosco said. “He has gone through a lot this year and I’m glad to see he’s finally coming around toward the end of the season, when it really counts.” Nitsche is practicing hard for the conference meet, but has his sights set on becoming the fourth state sectional diving champion St. Pats has had in the last five years. “Kevin has a shot. This will be the closest sectional we’ve had since I began coaching. Anyone can win,” Fosco said.

The Fr/So conference title has eluded the divers at St. Pats, but freshman McClure hopes to change that. This season McClure posted the sixth highest score in school history at the Fr/So level with a 157.20. “Austin has done an awesome job this year. He has made a huge impact on the whole program. The last freshman to come into St. Pat’s with this kind of potential was Michael Wright,” Fosco stated. McClure comes from Oakton Diving Club, the same club where Wright is from and Coach Fosco is an Assistant coach.

Sophomore Wilk will also attempt to make school history as he puts the pressure on McClure to be the first Shamrock tandem to finish 1-2 in a conference diving event. John has scored a high 119.40 this year, but is still looking for consistency.

Newcomer Alamanza has made great strides this year. “He began the year with a lot of enthusiasm, but little experience. Now he is scoring in the 90’s. I am very encouraged with his progress and what his future may bring,” said Fosco

The Shamrocks host Nazareth and Quigley on Tuesday and travel to Maine East on Wednesday. The divers will take the boards at the Conference meet at Fenwick H.S. on Saturday February 3rd at 9:00.