CHENGDU, CHINA – Six Mustangs wrapped up competition at the 2023 FISU World University Games in Chengdu, China.
SMU's participants in the games represented Team USA in swimming and tennis on both the men's and women's side of competition.
Johnson (6-0,6-0), Cloud (6-0,6-0) and Krall (6-0,6-1) all had dominant opening singles victories.
"It was such an amazing experience to represent Team USA on such a big stage," said Johnson. "Competing for your country is one of the most special things you can do as an athlete, and I will forever cherish these moments."
Johnson later advanced to the third round of play for her final round of competition.
Krall went on to defeat the tournament's No. 1 overall seed - Chak Lam Coleman of Hong Kong - in two sets (6-3,6-4) in the second round. Krall continued his run with another victory (6-2,6-4) against No. 15 seeded Yuttana Charoenphon of Thailand before falling in the quarterfinals.
"It was an amazing feeling going out to represent the United States," said Krall. "To be able to compete in such a prestigious and well-run event is something I will cherish for the rest of my life."
"Competing in Chengdu was some of the most fun of my life," explained Clark. "I got to meet some incredible people and experience things I will remember for the rest of my life. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity."
Clark also competed in the mixed doubles draw with UCLA's Elise Wagle. The Mustang and Bruin combined talents to upset the tournament's No. 7 seeded mixed doubles squad from India (6-4,6-2). They were then eliminated in the quarterfinals by the eventual champions from the Chinese Taipei.
Corcoran's time at the World University Games marked her conclusion of athletic competition as a Mustang due to having no years of eligibility remaining. She finished seventh in her heat and 12th overall in the 1,500 freestyle. Corcoran will remain on the Hilltop as a graduate assistant within the women's swimming program.
In comparison, Hoagland's results at the World University Games marked the beginning of his athletic tenure as a Mustang following his transfer from the University of Notre Dame. Across five different events, his team finished fifth in the 4x200 freestyle relay, with a 1:49.97 split. As for individual races, he finished sixth in the 800 freestyle (8:05.66), seventh in the 1,500 freestyle (15:33.40) and eighth place in the 400 freestyle (3:54.41).
"It was an honor representing SMU and the USA in such a prestigious event like the World University Games," Johnson said. "It was truly amazing to compete against all the different Universities and countries throughout the world, and I am so thankful I got to experience this."
