Indianapolis, Ind. -- May 17, 2011 -- Brian Sobel, a senior All-American diver from Springfield College, has earned an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship. Sobel will receive a $7,500 scholarship award for part-time or full-time postgraduate study at a university or professional school of his choice.Sobel, a native of Stratford, Conn., finished up as a two-time All-American at the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Championships at the University of Tennessee this past March.
In the 1-meter diving event, Brian placed third with a total of 448.35 points. In the 3-meter diving event, he placed eighth with 492.85 points.
A few weeks before, Sobel was named New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference First Team in the 3-meter. He was Second Team all-conference in the 1-meter. He was also named NEWMAC All-Academic.
Sobel qualified for nationals 24 times in 25 opportunities this winter. During the year, he re-established his dual-meet 6-dive school records in both the 1-meter and 3-meter dives.
Not only was Sobel a great diver for Springfield College, he was also one of the most versatile student-athletes on campus. He took part in the Home Show, the gymnastics exhibition that is performed each fall. He was also involved in SC Backstage and with the SC Dancers. He was a Pre-Camp Leader, and performed in SC's Best of Broadway. He was a Union Building manager, a student ambassador, and was part of the College Reunion Staff. He was also one of six recipients of the Springfield College Humanics Award at Stepping Up Day on campus.
Sobel was the second NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship winner from Springfield College in as many years. In 2010, AVCA Division III Men's Volleyball National Player of the Year AJ Nally also earned an NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship.
John Taffe enters his 25th season in 2013-2014 as the head coach of the men's and women's swimming teams at Springfield College. Under Taffe’s leadership, the Pride has returned to its status as one of the best collegiate swimming and diving programs in Division III. Read more.
Peter Avdoulos is regarded as one of the top diving coaches in the nation, and will enter his 28th season as the diving coach for both the men's and women's programs in 2012-2013. The current NEWMAC Men's Diving Coach of the Year, Avdoulos has coached countless All-New England and All-American divers, as well as several National Champions. Read more.