by Alan Babbitt

Hope College's Bailey Smith has been named the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association Men's Swimming Athlete of the Week.

The freshman from Battle Creek, Michigan (Lakeview HS) is recognized after winning twice in the distance freestyle events at the Davenport University last weekend in Kentwood, Michigan. He helped the Flying Dutchmen win their meet against the University of Findlay (Ohio) and Kalamazoo College.

Smith won the 1,650-yard freestyle with a time of 16:57.73, which ranks 11th-best in NCAA Division III. 

He also was victorious in the 500 freestyle, touching first in 4:53.29 to lead a 1-2-3 Hope finish. 

Smith finished second in the 200 freestyle at 1:46.86 and swam a leg on Hope's 200 freestyle relay that won the event.

This is the first time Smith has been chosen as the MIAA Men's Swimming Athlete of the Week.