UK swimming and diving seeking first win of the season
October 11, 2013
By Andrew Adkins | Sports Writer
Looking for its first victory of the season, the UK men’s and women’s swimming and diving team will compete against Ohio State University at home Friday.
The Cats will be attempting to rally from a 327-208 loss Sept. 25 at the University of Georgia, the defending women’s national champion.
“I expect great energy, fight and determination out of my team,” UK head coach Lars Jorgensen said. “Georgia is fantastic. It was a great lesson to go against a team like that, as it serves as motivation for the rest of the season.”
The UK women face an Ohio State team that includes four returning NCAA qualifiers, while the UK men are challenged by a Buckeye team that placed 12th in the NCAA Championships last season.
“OSU is a fine program, and a consistent top-20 team,” Jorgensen said. “We will give it our best and fight hard. Everyone’s excited for Friday.”
Jorgensen has been intrigued by the efforts put forth by his team in recent practices,the leadership of seniors Maclin Simpson and John Fox, junior Michael Christian on the men’s side and juniors Lindsay Hill and Christa Cabot of the women’s team.
Jorgensen also said that in order for the team to achieve their goals, the freshmen will need to display leadership as well.
“In order for us to progress every week and reach our potential before the SEC Championships in February and March, everyone must continue to provide leadership,” he said.
The swimming and diving season is seven months long, and the matchup with Ohio State may provide extra motivation early.
“This is a rivalry and I expect my team to be excited and competitive,” Jorgensen said. “I expect great things.”
The men and women meet will begin at 5 p.m. in the Lancaster Aquatics Center.
