The 2001-2002 season saw a sixth place finish in the MAC and an overall record of 5-8 for the men's swimming and diving team. These are two things the Ball State men's swim team wants to put out of its mind. The Cardinals have an opportunity at a fresh start this weekend at Purdue University in West Lafayette.
The first meet of the year includes host Purdue, University of Indianapolis, Butler University, IUPUI, and Valparaiso University.
The early season meet helps the Cardinals work out its weaknesses and get reacquainted with the competition they will face for the rest of the year.
"It's a great way to break the ice for the freshmen and the transfers," head coach Bob Thomas said. "I look forward to getting into a competitive situation without the pressure of the conference."
The team lost eight swimmers due to graduation, but the team is stocked with talent to take their place.
"There are always a few individuals that are hard to replace," Thomas said. "The upperclassmen and people who are returning have stepped up and taken over where the leaders left off."
The strong recruiting class, which consists of nine incoming swimmers, will have a lot to do with the success of the Cardinals in the upcoming year.
"I'm excited about the recruiting class," Thomas said. "On paper they appear to make an immediate impact on our team. The big question is can they compete at the collegiate level where we will get the first test out of the way."
An improvement from last year seems like a guarantee for the Cardinals.
"We have a much stronger squad with more depth," Thomas said. "We have people in events that we needed help in plus our retuning swimmers are better."//2+>-¦+â-ïm. swimming 10.25DNEditorial//2SORT*+â-ä2AUDT
+â-äe-+
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
