The Ball State University men's swimming and diving team is looking to start its Mid-American Conference schedule with a victory, while the women's team is looking to even up its record at 2-2 after two disappointing losses last weekend.
The women's team plays host to the University of Akron on Friday, while both teams play host to the University at Buffalo on Saturday.
The men have had three weeks off and are eager to start their MAC schedule and also to compete again. Coach Bob Thomas said he is looking forward to seeing how the men improved.
"We've been improving a lot thus far, and I look for us to continue to improve every meet," Thomas said. "Buffalo will be a good measuring stick for us; we hope to be competitive."
Sophomore diver Chris Behrle said he thinks the Buffalo meet will prove to be a true test for the team.
"We both usually have the same scores, so it's going to be a competitive meet," Behrle said. "Every week we're getting better."
The women are hoping to bounce back after suffering two defeats last weekend.
Coach Laura Seibold-Caudill said the team has been improving a lot in the last few weeks and will stand a good chance in both meets this weekend. The women's teams from both Akron and Buffalo are not teams to be underestimated; however, both teams beat Ohio University last week, the defending MAC champions.
"It's going to be challenging, but I think we can handle them," Seibold-Caudill said. "We are going in as the underdogs this weekend, but because of our team chemistry and having the home pool advantage, I think we can pull out victories both days."
An event of specific interest will be the women's one and three-meter diving events. Junior Lisa Maertin, who was a top eight finisher in the MAC last year, will be up against Akron senior Katie Carter, who was also a top eight finisher in the MAC a season ago.
"She puts up the most competition in the MAC," Maertin said. "She is one of my biggest rivals."
Tonight's meet gets under way at 6 p.m. and at 1 p.m. Saturday, the men start with the women to follow at 4 p.m. All three meets are at Lewellen Aquatic Center.
In actionBall State vs. Akron
Time: 6 p.m.
Venue: Lewellen Aquatic Center
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