The Ball State University swimming and diving teams look to continue their winning ways this weekend at Michigan State University. The Cardinals are coming off a victory at the House of Champions Invitational last weekend at IUPUI.
Coach Bob Thomas said Michigan State will put up some of the toughest competition the teams have seen this year, but he thinks they are ready for the challenge. The teams have been practicing at a higher intensity for shorter times this week so the players can focus on school and their upcoming finals. Thomas said this will help them swim fast this weekend before they go home for Winter Break.
"This weekend, there is no reason for the kids to not swim as fast, if not faster then they did last weekend," Thomas said.
Coach Laura Seibold-Caudill said the teams are definite underdogs this weekend, but that's not a bad thing.
"Michigan State is the favorite in almost every event, but we like being the underdogs," Seibold-Caudill said. "We can compete if we focus, have fun, and just swim like we can. This past weekend showed that the team is focused, driven and coming together as one."
Last weekend, diver Lisa Maertin once again qualified for the NCAA Zone Diving Meet in Minneapolis in March. She is looking to continue her stretch of high scores this weekend.
"This is the third time I've had a Zone qualifying score," Maertin said. "So now I feel like I can compete at that level now."
Maertin will get a taste of that level of competition this weekend, as Michigan State has four divers that have already qualified for the Zone Diving Meet.
After this meet, the teams are off for break, but return New Year's Day to head to Ft. Pierce, Fla., for a week of intense training to prepare for the spring competition season.
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
