Oct. 10, 2009

Final Stats

LINCOLN, Neb. - The Fighting Illini swimming and diving team was victorious in its season debut, defeating host Nebraska, 165-135 earlier today at the Devaney Center Natatorium in Lincoln, Neb. The Orange and Blue won 11 of 16 event titles, while freshman Lauren Wismer set a new school record in the one-meter dive with a score of 290.47.

Wismer was also victorious in the three-meter dive, posting a score of 282.38 to rank sixth all-time in the event.

"It was a nice way to start the season, especially as a freshman," diving coach Chris Waters said. "She looked very steady and had solid performances today."

Senior Jen Ivarson snatched up three event titles in the 100 fly (57.73), 200 fly (2:06.35) and the 200 individual medley (2:09.26).

"Jen (Ivarson) did a great job today," head coach Sue Novitsky said. "She took on her races strong from the start, which we've been working on for three years, and was able to finish them strong."

Teammate Kristen Manias picked up two wins in the 50 free (24.42) and the 100 free (52.93)and helped the team sweep the 400 medley relay (3:56.51) and the 200 free relay (1:37.76).

"Kristen (Manias) came out very strong, Novitsky said. "She has been working on starts and returns and those played a big role in her success today. She had a tough swim in the 400 medley relay, but was able to hold on to the finish. It was good to see her race with a lot of confidence and strength and be tough at the end."

Also victorious was senior Amy Johnson in the 100 breast (1:06.36) and 400 medley relay and classmate Kristen Kloeckener in the 500 free (5:08.27).

"Overall it was good to travel and come back home with a win," Novitsky said. "It was back and forth all the way through, which was a good situation to be in this early in the season. It was a tough competition."

The Fighting Illini travel to East Lansing, Mich., this Friday, Oct. 16 to face the Michigan State Spartans in dual meet action beginning at 5 p.m. at McCaffree Pool.