BIDDEFORD, Maine -- University of New England Director of Athletics Heather Davis, in conjunction with the Little East Conference (LEC) and Commissioner Pamela Samuelson, announced on Thursday (June 16) that the Nor'easter women's swimming program will become an affiliate member of the multi-sport league beginning in the 2022-23 season.

"We are very grateful for this opportunity to have our women's swimming program compete in the Little East Conference," said Davis. "Last year, our student-athletes had their first experience as a conference member, with a championship meet and awards throughout the season. It's exciting that we now get to continue in that direction with the LEC."

Adding UNE into the annual LEC Championship makes 10 institutions, alongside Bridgewater State University, Eastern Connecticut State University, reigning champion Keene State College, Plymouth State University, Rhode Island College, University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth, Western Connecticut State University, Western New England University, and Westfield State University. Last year's event was held in late February.

"I am thrilled to be joining the LEC," shared UNE head coach Rick Hayes. "I have had the pleasure of working with and competing against these institutions and coaches over the last 16 years and know our expectations align with theirs. The LEC values of success academically, athletically, and personally mirror those of our program. We are very excited to be part of this growing conference."

Complete release from LEC

In its lone year of membership with the Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) in 2021-22, UNE women's swimming placed third out of 10 at the league championship. The Nor'easters will continue their membership with the New England Intercollegiate Swimming & Diving Association (NEISDA), which sponsors a larger, regional championship each February.