FREDERICTON, N.B. – The AUS Swim season kicked off in Fredericton this past weekend at the annual Ambey Legere Invitational Meet hosted by UNB.

The team travelled with it's largest contingent yet, with 31 swimmers ready to compete after a build-up of six weeks of training.

The men's team placed a close second to the perennial champions Dalhousie Tigers and the Axewomen finished second to the Tigers.

"Because it was their first competition many of our swimmers decided to swim some off-events. They raced hard and fast and definitely improved on their showing compared to the previous season. The men's team are quickly moving forward and I hope we can challenge this year at AUS championships," said head coach Gary MacDonald following the weekend meet.

Top male performance went to senior swimmer Adam Deutsch, who managed a victory in the 200m breaststroke, and strong second place finishes in the 100m individual medley and the 100m breaststroke.

Rookie Jessica Pelletier was the top female performer. Pelletier won the 50m and 100m backstroke.

Also showing promise in the men's were sprint sensation and second year Axeman Brett Liem with three silver medals and one bronze.

Rookie Australian team member, Guy Harrison-Murray, challenged in each of his races.

Axewoman rookie Kelsea Vessey proved she was a force to be reckoned with, posting several terrific swims by placing second in three events and third in another. Veteran and team captain, Ali MacEachern, was also in fine form, capturing three medals in her specialty the butterfly and the 100m individual medley.

The Axewomen and Axemen will have two weeks off to rest and train before hosting the annual Jack Scholz meet at the Acadia Pool on Saturday, October 28 and Sunday, October 29.