USA World Champ Swimmers - Young but Not Restless

As experienced and savvy as the men's team is, the women's team has as many young, first-time faces on the roster as it does veterans. Intermixed with seasoned swimmers like Coughlin, Rachel Komisarz, Tara Kirk, Margaret Hoelzer and Mary DeScenza are newcomers Elizabeth Beisel, a 14-year-old backstroker; 17-year-old Ariana Kukors, an individual medley specialist; Indiana University senior Leila Vaziri; and butterflyer Kim Vandenberg.

While they may be a little inexperienced at the international level, the talent and results of this year's World novices could very well set the pace for the rest of the U.S. women's team. “I think for the newcomers it is all about making sure they don't change from their normal routines,” Hoff said. “It is very important to stay with what works for you as an individual. I think we are very strong, and the veterans will continue to perform, and the newcomers will get the experience they will need for 2008.”

More on the 2007 FINA World Championships - Melbourne, 17 March - 1 April 2007 - Including links to full results.

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