Senior Allison Bellford currently competes for Oakland University, a swim and dive team in their second year as members of the Horizon League. Pete Hovland is the head coach at Oakland University, assisted by Shawn Kornoelje, Katie Sullivan, Andre Latour, Blaine Dolcetti, and Larry Albright (Diving). Oakland Swimming and Diving is known for their long history of success in the pool, starting in the Division II days. In Division II, Oakland won 20 National Championships between the Men and Women’s teams. After Oakland moved up to Division I, the teams continued their winning tradition, being undefeated at the conference championships 16 years in a row. Oakland University athletes are also known as the Golden Grizzlies. (Oakland University Golden Grizzlies Athletics, 2015)
Background
Alli was born in 1994 to parents Russ and Lisa Bellford. She was always athletic and her parents encouraged her and her sister, Nicole, to participate in every sport/activity they could. She started with competitive swimming at age 11, and they both took to it immediately. Alli’s parents then became involved with the club team, and her dad became the dry-land coach.
High School
Alli attended New Berlin Eisenhower High School, and competed in swimming for Pete Zenobi, Katie Schmaling, and Liz Rohde. The highlight of Alli’s high school career was when she became the 50-yard freestyle State Champion at the Division 2 Wisconsin State Meet in 2010 and 2011.
College
2012-2013: This was Alli’s first year competing for the Golden Grizzlies. She was the anchor on the School, Pool, and League-Record setting 200-yard Medley Relay, and posted a best time in the relay (22.75).
2013-2014: Alli was a scorer on the first Oakland University team to bring home a Horizon League championship.
2014-2015: Alli was able to graduate in her third year, and go on to Oakland University’s School of Physical Therapy. She is happy to stay close to her team.
