Duke University Team Page

HONOLULU, Hawaii - On the final day of their trip to Hawaii, the No. 3 Blue Devils spent the morning facing their fears by swimming with sharks, before enjoying one last afternoon at Waikiki Beach.

The team awoke well before sunrise to drive to the north side of the island, where they were greeted by an outstanding crew of knowledgeable and excited people. The team took a 15 minute ride to a part of the sea where the sharks commonly hang out. The area is very popular among crab fisherman, so the sharks have grown accustomed to (and excited about) visiting boats. For the past 40 years, fishermen have thrown left over scraps over the edge, so now when the sharks hear the approaching motor, they hear the dinner bell.

The Blue Devils split into three groups, with each group getting an opportunity to swim with the massive creatures in a large cage. The crew informed the team that most of the sharks were known as Galapagos sharks and they ranged from five to 12 feet in length.

Following an adrenaline filled swim, the team went over to explore the shores home to some of the world's best surfing. After a brief stop at the Dole Plantation for a few pineapple treats, the team headed back to Waikiki Beach for an afternoon of leisure.

The Blue Devils return to Durham, N.C. Sunday after a long red-eye flight (and a birthday celebration for junior Marianne Jodoin) and kicks off their dual-match slate on Jan. 19 against William & Mary.