Courtesy: Iona Athletics
EDISON, NJ – Iona University men’s swimming and diving standout Michael Faughnan has been named the 2023-24 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Student-Athlete of the Year recipient. Faughnan becomes the 14th MAAC Male Student-Athlete of the Year from Iona and is the first non Iona Cross Country / Track & Field athlete to win MAAC Student-Athlete of the Year.
“Michael is the most self driven and goal oriented student-athlete I have had in my 44 years at Iona, while being the ultimate teammate. He changed events from year to year to help the team and has never hesitated to push himself and teammates to pursue excellence.” Head coach Nick Cavataro said.
“Michael Faughnan has exemplified what it means to be a student-athlete at Iona University. His dedication, hard work, and excellence in the pool have made him one of the most decorated swimmers in our program’s history. We are incredibly proud of his achievements and this well-deserved recognition as the MAAC Student Athlete of the Year. Michael’s success is a testament to his commitment both academically and athletically, highlighting the core values we uphold at Iona.” said Athletic Director Matthew Glovaski.
“I want to congratulate the 2023-24 MAAC Student-Athletes of the Year, Michael and Teagan,” said MAAC Commissioner Travis Tellitocci. “These two outstanding student-athletes exemplified the MAAC mantra of excellence in academics and athletics during their time on campus and have left an indelible mark on the conference. We’re proud of their outstanding achievements and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors!”
Faughnan has been one of the most decorated swimmers in Iona history over his four years in the Maroon & Gold, this past season alone the two time defending MAAC Most Outstanding Swimmer led the Gaels to their highest finish in program history at the 2024 CSCAA National Invitational. He set new conference records in the 200-yard freestyle and the 200 yard backstroke, and was part of Gaels record breaking 200-, 400-, and 800- yard freestyle relays along with the 400-yard medley relay. He currently holds eight school records and is a three time MAAC All-Academic team honoree. Over his four years he has won nine gold medals with three straight in the 200-yard freestyle. The Hopewell Junction native has also Qualified for three NIC events in 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Michael graduated this past spring with a degree in accounting and will be returning for his fifth year in 2024-2025 to complete his masters degree and will continue to swim towards greatness.