Princeton University Athletics
Sophomore Diver Kent DeMond Earns All-America Honors On Platform
April 05, 2005 | Men's Swimming and Diving
April 5, 2005
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. - After spending the fall semester studying in France and not diving once during his time away, sophomore Kent DeMond returned the end of January just hoping to dive at the H-Y-P meet and the Eastern championships. He would soon find out that there would be plenty more in store for him.
The sophomore trained hard upon his return and reached the NCAA Championships, where he earned All-America honors by placing 15th in the platform event. DeMond, who also earned 31st in the one-meter competition, helped Princeton to 35th place.
DeMond reached the NCAA championships by winning the Zone 'A' Qualifying meet. After struggling on his first dive, he bounced back with strong efforts to get within contention heading into his final dive.
"When I think about what it all means," DeMond said, "that's when I struggle. I try not to look at the scoreboard. When I'm relaxed and having fun, that's when I do my best."
His best was good enough to win the zone and reach NCAAs. He admitted to being surprised that he got back into form so quickly after traveling for the fall semester, but now his focus is set for next year.
"I'll be here the whole year next season," DeMond said. "My goal will be to reach the top eight in NCAAs next year."