Michigan State University Athletics
Swimming And Diving Hosts St. Bonaventure
1/27/2006 12:00:00 AM | Swimming and Diving
Jan. 27, 2006
EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State men's and women's swimming and diving teams will host St. Bonaventure on Saturday, Jan. 28, at 12 p.m., at the Charles McCaffree Pool in IM West. The meet is the Spartans' final regular season competition of the year, with the senior class being honored in what will be their final outing in East Lansing. Adding to the excitement of the day, it will mark the first time that MSU head coach Matt Gianiodis and his Green and White team will compete against his alma mater.
"We initially had a hard time scheduling this weekend, so I am really thrilled that St. Bonaventure is coming here," stated Gianiodis. "Sean McNamee had the biggest influence of anyone on my coaching career and he is also my son's godfather. In addition, Lance Brennan was a former teammate. Being an alumnus it is a little uncomfortable, but I think this will help us and them in preparation for upcoming championships."
The MSU men are looking to continue their winning ways, having picked up victories in their last two meets against Ball State and Oakland. The women have won two of their last three meets, also defeating Ball State and Oakland, but were closely edged by Notre Dame, 153-147, on Jan. 21. The Spartan teams are anchored by a strong senior class, who will be competing in their final home meets of their career.
"We have a tremendous senior class," Gianiodis added. "They are all great kids who have given so much of themselves to the program. It would be great to see a large crowd come out to help honor these student-athletes. It will be a tough day, but we still have to go out there and swim and put out our best performances."
Following the St. Bonaventure meet, the MSU women will take over a two week layoff to prepare for the Big Ten Championships, while the men have wait more than three weeks to hit championship waters. Ohio State is the host of this year's Big Ten Championship, with the women's meet running Feb. 15-17 and the men's going Feb. 23-25.
