UT to host USA Olympic Diving Team Selection Camp

By News Sentinel staff

Originally published 05:11 p.m., January 16, 2008
Updated 05:11 p.m., January 16, 2008

The University of Tennessee’s new aquatic center won’t have to wait long to host an elite event.

UT announced Wednesday the USA Olympic Diving Team Selection Camp will be held July 2-6 at the Allan Jones Intercollegiate Aquatic Center.

The event will finalize the U.S. diving team that travels to China in August to compete in the Olympic Games.

Making the team is a two-step process in each of the Olympic events: men’s platform and 3-meter springboard; women’s platform and 3-meter springboard; men’s and women’s synchronized team diving.

First, the winners from each of the four individual events at the U.S. Olympic Diving Trials in Indianapolis will be awarded spots on the team. That meet is in June.

Next, at least six individuals in each event will be invited to Knoxville to compete for a second Olympic berth in each event. The men’s and women’s synchronized teams will also be selected here during the camp.

The elite divers will be in Knoxville two weeks to train and then compete, said UT diving coach Dave Parrington.

“USA Diving has recognized the outstanding venue the University of Tennessee is completing and our commitment to aquatic sports,’’ Parrington said.

Parrington said former UT diver Jevon Tarantino is contending to make the Olympic team.

The AJIAC is slated to be completed March 20.