Press Release courtesy of Illinois Athletics
The Fighting Illini women’s swimming and diving team will open its season on Friday, October 13, as the team hosts Indiana State at the ARC Pool. The meet will be the first of five home meets for the Illini on the season and is set to begin at 4 p.m.
“The team is looking strong heading into Friday’s meet,” head coach Sue Novitsky said. “We talk a lot about being relentless competitors and what that looks like every day. The team is eager to step up on the blocks and on the boards and challenge themselves with each opportunity.”
A year ago, the Illini traveled to Terre Haute, Indiana, and came away with a 184-77 victory over the Sycamores. The Orange and Blue dominated throughout, earning top times in 13 of the 14 events. Last year was the first meeting between the two teams since the 1979-80 season, as the newly-formed Indiana State program is in just its second year of competition. UI is 5-0 all time against Indiana State.
The Sycamores are 0-2 on the season, falling to both Illinois State and UIC. The team also competed in the Notre Dame Relay Meet, finishing in fourth place
“As a team, we need to stay focused and engaged in the meet,” Novitsky said. “It is about executing the little details, winning the little battles to put yourself in a position for success. This is another step in the process to see where we stand with training and what we may need to focus on a little more.”
PROMOTIONS
All fans in attendance are encouraged to wear orange, as Friday’s meet marks “Hail to the Orange Night” at the Arc Pool. There will be free pizza for the first 100 fans, as well as giveaways such as koozies and Hail to the Orange t-shirts.
FOLLOW THE ILLINI
Stay tuned to FIGHTINGILLINI.com for all the latest information on Fighting Illini Swimming and Diving. Follow the Orange and Blue on Twitter, Facebook and Insta