Im's top performances in the water have also contributed to the team's positive outlook on the season as a whole.

"As a senior, I think he's definitely been a huge contribution to the team in terms of leadership as well as enthusiasm," Groves said. "I think people were excited that they could make the same kind of [time] drops."

Among Im's credentials are his participation in the 100- and 200-meter backstroke events at the Olympic Trials this past summers and his numerous All-Ivy Honors titles. The Kalamazoo, Mich.-native was also a state record-holder in high school and an All-American in the 100-yard backstroke.

As momentous as his accomplishments may be on an individual level, however, Im remains focused on the Crimson's goals as a team.

"I'm looking forward to seeing what the team can do in 2001," Im said. "All indications show that we're ready to blow up in the second half of the season and continue what we've already started."