Next Level: Emma Marsalek Inks with Fresno Pacific

FRESNO, Calif. - Allan Hancock College swimming standout, Emma Marsalek, has signed on to continue her academic and athletic career at Fresno Pacific University next season. 

"I really like how small the campus is at Fresno Pacific, which made it kind of feel less scary when visiting. Another big reason as to why I chose FPU is that I could tell that Coach Brian Sharar has great plans for the team and for me. Coach Sharar really emphasized the team environment over our phone calls and when I got to go on my recruiting trip, I could tell that was the type of environment that I wanted to be in," Marsalek shared. "The team works hard while still being able to have fun, which is the main reason that we all get into the sport in the first place. Fresno Pacific and Coach Sharar had everything that I wanted to take the next step in my swimming career."  

Marsalek has spent two seasons with the Bulldogs and will leave with a highly-decorated career in the water. As a freshman, the Santa Maria native was recognized as a 3C2A All-American in three individual events - 1,650-YD Freestyle, 500-YD Freestyle, and 400-YD Individual Medley - and in two relay events. She made waves in her collegiate debut by collecting two WSC titles and three medals at the state meet in 2023. This season, Marsakel finished second in the 1,650-YD Freestyle and was third in both the 500-YD Freestyle and the 400-YD Individual Medley at the conference championship. 

"My time at AHC has helped prepare me for my success at the next level by helping me grow, not only as a person but also as an athlete. It has helped me learn the challenges of being a collegiate athlete before taking the big step forward," Marsalek added. "I've learned better time management skills and how to make sure to stay focused on my studies while also focusing on my sport." 

The Sunbirds are a Division II member of the NCAA and compete in the PacWest Conference.