Wagner remains unbeaten, claims MVC diving crown (Video)

CEDAR RAPIDS - A classic rock song by the band Three Dog Night claimed that one was the loneliest number.

If that is true, Linn-Mar's Sam Wagner must be the loneliest diver around during competition.

Wagner continued her streak of being No. 1, winning the Mississippi Valley Conference diving title Thursday night at Cedar Rapids Jefferson. She became the Lions' first MVC diving champion, tallying 388.35 points in the 11-dive competition, topping runner-up Betsy Osterberger by 11.15 points.

The Lions' senior said consistency was key to reaching the top step of the podium and writing her in the school's record books.

“That's exciting,” Wagner said. “It means a lot to represent Linn-Mar well.”

Wagner remained unbeaten in diving competition this season. Wagner said she plans to dive at the NCAA Division I level and has talked with University of Wyoming with plans to visit with the University of Iowa, has qualified for state each year, placing 9th, 14th and 11th the last three years. She wants to finish with that unblemished mark.

“That's my goal for the season is to be undefeated,” Wagner said. “I'm working really hard to keep that going.”

Wagner and Osterberger traded leads throughout the competition. Osterberger led by a little more than two points with three dives left. Wagner took control late, receiving high marks on her 10th dive. She thrives on being challenged.

“I'm a really, really, really competitive person,” Wagner said. “I love diving against Becky because she's an amazing diver. It encourages and pushes me to do better.”

Listen to Wagner discuss the competition and accomplishment.

Like many divers, Wagner's roots are in gymnastics. She has successfully transferred skills like jumping, twisting, flipping and mental toughness from the mat to the one-meter board.

“I was a gymnast for 10 years,” said Wagner, who no longer competes in gymnastics. “It helps with everything."

Linn-Mar diving coach Meghan Sievertsen knows plenty about success on the springboard, winning three state titles for Cedar Rapids Kennedy from 2002-04 before competing for the Iowa Hawkeyes. She praised Wagner's devotion and hard work.

“Her dedication in the offseason and every day at practice is what really makes the difference," Sievertsen said. "She's been battling injuries and battles back every time. It's just that dedication every day.”

Sievertsen recognizes the potential for big accomplishments from Wagner. The ability exists and she is capable of remaining unbeaten the rest of the way.

“She's extremely talented,” Sievertsen said. “I think she has a really bright future so we'll see what these next few weeks and beyond bring. I look forward to it.”

Cedar Falls teammates Hannah Brummel, Katie Mason and Clarie Baumgartner finished third through fifth. Iowa City High's Jindalae Suh placed sixth, scoring 311.35, five points back of Baumgartner.

Linn-Mar's Adelia Clark was seventh with 294.65.

Swim finals will be held Saturday at Jefferson, starting at noon.

Final standings - 1. Sam Wagner (Linn-Mar), 388.35, 2. Betsy Osterberger (Dubuque Wahlert), 377.20, 3. Hannah Brummel (Cedar Falls), 364.55, 4. Katie Mason (Cedar Falls), 327.45, 5. Clarie Baumgartner (Cedar Falls), 316.35, 6. Jindalae Suh (Iowa City High), 311.35, 7. Adelia Clark (Linn-Mar), 294.65, 8. Rachael Schafer (Dubuque Wahlert), 291.30, 9. Alex Aaberg (Iowa City West), 287.60, 10. Amy Parker (C.R. Washington), 283.45, 11. Alyssa Deuso (Linn-Mar), 278.90, 12. Megan Broadbent (Dubuque Hempstead), 274.90, 13. Tori Spaulding (C.R. Kennedy), 270.70, 14. Mo Groe (C.R. Jefferson), 253.50, 15. Jacintha Thomas (Iowa City West), 250.20, 16. Jocelyn Nelson (C.R. Kennedy), 242.35.