When the Irish head to Topeka, Kan., to compete in the Kansas Women's Classic this weekend, it will be a homecoming for sophomore Emma Reaney.
Reaney was recently named Big East Swimmer of the Week after winning four individual events and two relays in meets against Louisville and Pittsburgh.
She said she appreciates being chosen for the award, which is the fourth of her career.
"It is such an honor," Reaney said. "I love the fact that this week it is me and [men's swimmer junior] Frank Dyer, and last week it was [senior] Kim Holden and Frank again. It feels great to know that Notre Dame is killing it as far as our conference goes."
Reaney, who is originally from Lawrence, Kan., is excited to be competing in her home state. She said the Jayhawks will be the toughest competition at the event.
"I'm from Lawrence and trained with many of the [University of Kansas] girls this summer," Reaney said. "I know how they train and a little bit about how they perform. I think that they will definitely be our biggest competition."
With several meets in only a few days and a tough week of practice, Reaney said the Irish are starting to feel the toll of the season.
"We've had a draining week of meets, lifts and practices," Reaney said. "But the team as a whole has been pushing through it with real grit as our coach likes to say, and I think that determination will show this weekend."
Reaney said the Irish will do fine against the competition as long as they keep their focus.
"I think we just have to remember that wherever we go, we represent the University of Notre Dame," Reaney said. "That is always something to be proud of, whether we are racing the No. 1 team in the country, or a small Division III school. We're in this together and if we can remember that we've worked hard for and with each other, we will be fine."
Reaney said her goal for the weekend is to have as much fun as possible, especially with her family making the short drive to watch her swim.
"It's going to be a long weekend and if I can enjoy myself while swimming that many events, I know it will have been a good weekend," Reaney said. "My family and friends will all be there, too, so that will help out with the whole having fun part."
Notre Dame performs at the Kansas Women's Classic starting Friday in Topeka, Kan.
Contact Katie Heit at kheit@nd.edu
