University of Tennessee Athletics
Tennessee Diver Earns Spot on US National Team
April 22, 2002 | Men's Swimming & Diving
April 22, 2002
Tennessee diver Phillip Jones competed this past weekend at the US Diving World Cup Team Trials in Cleveland, Ohio, where he finished fourth in the three-meter competition. The fourth-place finish earned Jones a spot on the six-man US National Team. The squad includes Mark Ruiz, Troy Dumais, Tom Davidson, Justin Wilcock and Aaron Kirkpatrick.
"I was really excited about finishing fourth," Jones said. "It could have been better, but I am happy with where I am right now."
Jones is now training for the upcoming FINA/USA Diving Grand Prix in Coral Springs, Fla., where he will compete in the three-meter competition. The Coral Springs Aquatic Complex will host the FINA/USA Diving Grand Prix, May 9-12. The FINA/USA Diving Grand Prix is the sole U.S. stop on the 10-country FINA (Federation Internationale de Natation) international tour and as a member of the US Team, Jones may be invited to other international competitions.
Jones is coached by Dave Parrington, the head diving coach at the University of Tennessee.
"Coaching Phillip is a pleasure most everyday," Parrington said. "But what is really exciting is his competitive drive to become one of the best divers in the nation, if not the world."
US National Team
1. Mark Ruiz Team Orlando 846.87
2. Troy Dumais Texas 799.59
3. Tom Davidson JP Divers 796.29
4. Phillip Jones Tennessee 775.41
5. Justin Wilcock Unattached 756.87
6. Aaron Kirkpatrick Kentucky Dive Club 734.43
