The conditions were not ideal for swimming outdoors on BU’s campus this weekend, but the inside of the West Gym made the perfect backdrop for a swim meet.

The Binghamton University men’s and women’s diving teams were in action Saturday — the men faced off against Canisius, while the women took on Canisius and Vermont, in their first home meets of the season.

The men’s team continued its dominating form by defeating Canisius handily by a score of 183-84. Senior David Holmes once again shined against the Golden Griffs by setting two new pool records in the 100-fly and the 200-freestyle. Head Coach Sean Clark considers himself lucky to have a swimmer like Holmes.

“We have found a swimmer who has bought into the system and exceeded all expectations,” Clark said. Holmes’ leadership along with that of senior co-captains Brian Koizim and Trevor Stone has helped the Bearcats to their quick start.

Yet the successes of the men’s team must also be attributed to the marvelous performances of its underclassman.

“The freshmen set the tone for this team.” Clark said. “But there is still a lot of work to be done, and the whole team is willing to work.” Clark has instilled a tireless work ethic, and the team has been quick to buy into that.

The men’s team has its biggest conference meet of the season this week against defending America East champion UMBC. The Retrievers lost their only conference match against the Bearcats last season, leading Clark to believe that this will be a “revenge meet for UMBC.” The Retrievers return a strong core from their championship team and should prove to be the toughest challenge for the Bearcats this season. But Clark believes that his team is “motivated” and ready to “compete at their highest level” this week.

The women’s team faced split decisions this week by defeating Canisius 219-70 and losing to Vermont 168.5-121.5. The team had a good showing and proved that there are many valuable athletes on the team.

Clark did not view the loss to Vermont as a setback, as the Bearcats are a growing team. “[We] won the first relay, which is a glimpse of the future” Clark said adding that he was looking forward to competing with Vermont, who ended up being a stronger squad than he expected.

Nevertheless, the Bearcats displayed their fine freshman talent with Allyce Brand and Lindsay Wright, who were a part of the winning relay squad. Wright, who is a local product, has shown considerable growth in just two matches. Clark hopes to have at least four point scorers from his young team at the conference meet and hopes a few may reach the conference final.

The women face a tough match against powerhouse UMBC, which comes off a victory over reigning conference champion UNH. Clark claims that the Bearcats will be “working on their events” and continuing to progress as athletes.

“It’s important to have patience,” said Clark, which may be especially tough with the women facing a team favored to win the conference championship.

Against UMBC the men must prove that they can compete with the powerhouses of the conference. The women must prove that they have promise, and are able to compete against the strongest teams. Regardless of what happens, this weekend will prove to be crucial to both swimming squads.