San Diego State opens the 2025 season with a 33-24 win at USD, capturing their 14th straight pentathlon triumph behind standout freshman performances.
SAN DIEGO | The San Diego State Aztecs swim and dive program continued its reign of dominance on Friday, powering past the University of San Diego Toreros, 33-24, in the annual season-opening pentathlon meet at USD Sports Center Pool. With the victory, SDSU has now claimed all 14 meetings between the two schools dating back to 2011.
The Aztecs swept the top 11 pentathlon spots, with freshman Roni Black making an immediate splash in her collegiate debut. Black secured the individual crown with a combined time of 4:59.01, edging out defending champion Reka Nyiradi (4:59.50) and sophomore Liv Peebles (4:59.81) in one of the closest finishes in meet history.
Aztecs Showcase Depth and Power
Freshman Sierra Tallman (5:01.35) and sophomore Alli Mann (5:02.60) rounded out the top five, highlighting SDSU’s blend of new talent and veteran leadership. Mann, a five-time All-Mountain West honoree, delivered a statement performance by winning both the 100 freestyle (50.96) and 100 butterfly (56.62).
Other event winners included:
- Moa Bergdahl in the 100 breaststroke (1:03.53)
- Tallman in the 100 individual medley (59.89)
- Nyiradi in the 500 freestyle (5:11.05)
The Aztecs also dominated in non-scoring events, picking up additional victories in sprint races such as the 50 freestyle, 50 butterfly, and 50 backstroke, further showcasing the team’s depth.
Momentum for the Season Ahead
With the strong season opener, San Diego State reinforced its status as one of the West Coast’s premier swim programs. The combination of established veterans and standout freshmen positions the Aztecs as a formidable force heading into Mountain West competition.
The Aztecs will return to the USD Sports Center Pool on Friday, Sept. 26, for a dual meet rematch with the Toreros at 1 p.m. PT.
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-- By Michael R. Thomas
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