St. Stephen Swimmer Joining REDS

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS women’s swimming team is adding Emma Richards, of St. Stephen, New Brunswick, to their recruiting class of 2025.

The 17-year-old, who’s finishing her Grade 12 year at Riverview High School, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2025-2026 Atlantic University Sport season.

“Emma will bring some welcome depth to our middle-distance group,” said REDS head coach Marta Belsh. “She’s proven her ability over a various distances and we look forward to her joining our program in the fall.”

Richards is currently a member of Riverview’s Codiac Vikings Aquatic Club after previously swimming with the St. Stephen Shark Attack.

“As an athlete, I bring a strong work ethic, a willingness to push my limits, and a sense of accountability,” said Richards. “I’m committed to setting high standards for myself, both in training and competition. I believe in building strong connections with my teammates, offering encouragement, and celebrating their successes alongside my own. My experiences have taught me the value of teamwork and mutual respect, and I am always eager to contribute to a cohesive and motivated team dynamic.”

Richards began her high school swimming career in her hometown, with the St. Stephen High School Spartans.

In her Grade 9 season, she earned a bronze medal at the provincial high school championships in the 100-metre junior varsity freestyle. She earned the gold medal in the same event in her Grade 10 year.

At Riverview High, she’s anchored the Royals to back-to-back silver medals in the 4-by-50-metre varsity freestyle relay at the provincial championships.

Richards has also represented the province at the Neptune International Swim Meet.

“A short-term goal would be improving my technique and endurance,” said Richards. “Long-term, I want to be helping the REDS win meets.”

“Emma has worked extremely hard to get where she is,” said Coach Belsh. “Her work ethic and experience will serve her well as she transitions to this level. That, in turn, will benefit us.”

Richard will study Kinesiology while attending UNB.

STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics

PHOTO: Submitted