Oct. 20, 2007

EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Fighting Illini swimming and diving team fell just short against Michigan State, 157-141, Saturday afternoon. Illini swimmers claimed a majority of the meets victories, winning nine out of the 16 events.

"Coming back from yesterday we showed good energy and a strong desire to win," head coach Sue Novitsky said. "The meet was tight throughout and we had opportunities to win. The loss hurts of course, but we can take away some positives that will help us down the road from today."

Junior Marissa Clapp led the way for the Illini with victories in the 100 and 200 breast, along with setting a lifetime best time of 4:23.36 in the 400 IM. Clapp claimed five individual event titles in two meets over the weekend.

Sophomore Jen Ivarson continued and exceptional weekend taking the 100 and 200 fly titles, her third and fourth wins of the weekend. Senior Kellie Stevens was another multiple event winner for the Orange and Blue claiming victories in the 50 and 200 free.

Sophomore, Kyla Bachtell, had an impressive day for the Illini divers. She placed third with a score of 246 on the three-meter, a lifetime best.

With a young team early season meets along with practice will be instrumental in the team's success at important end of the season meets.

"As a team we realize we need fight for our wins," Novitsky explained. "Executing the little things, like turns and finishes will help, along with starting off aggressive making the most of early races. The season is still young, but we will continue to work hard in practice to get better and make sure we are at our best come February and March."