Buffalo State College's men's and women's swimming and diving team were both named to the America's Academic All-American Teams for the fall 2003 semester , according to the College Swim Coaches Association of America. The men's team has the longest running honor in the SUNYAC Division III conference of achieving this award.

“ It is monumental because it separates our teams from any other team ,” said head coach Mike Switalski. “Our program is not only doing great athletically but academically as well.”

For the fifth straight semester , the men's team captured the award, making it the longest in the conference. Finishing 25 th of 191 national Division III teams and with a grade point average of 3.04, the nine member team was the only SUNYAC team in the conference to make it on the list.

“There is not necessarily pressure but pride among the men and they strive for excellence every semester and the women's team is off to a great start as well,” said Switalski.

With an overall GPA of 2.91, the women's eight member team ranked 59 th of 232 national Division III teams. Only two SUNYAC teams received this honor, BSC and SUNY Geneseo. This is the first time that the Lady Bengals have received this honor.

Coach Switalski believes that this recognition does bring a great deal of confidence towards a team. Anytime that an organization is recognized it brings a greater level of pride to a team.

“Usually in Division III, students often compete because they want too; however, there is a greater emphasis on academics becoming number one. They are always setting goals academically and athletically,” said Switalski.

And as for next year, coach Switalski said, “We have some high quality recruits coming in. They are strong students and swimmers, academically and athletically, who will help to carry on our tradition academically.”