Still looking to step up to the next level, the LSU swimming and diving team takes on the University of Tennessee Nov. 2 at 1 p.m. in the Natatorium.
LSU is looking to improve its 1-1 record against its conference rivals, the 1-0 Volunteers.
Despite his team’s 0-8 all-time record against the Vols, head coach Jeff Cavana remains positive and focused on improvement.
“[The athletes] have to deal with this year and not worry about the past,” Cavana said.
In the men’s competition LSU’s All-American Evan Martinec will be looking to continue his winning streak against Tennessee. Against Wright State he came away with the win in the 100-yard butterfly.
LSU’s Jan Minartz finished as a double winner against Wright State winning the 200 and 500-yard freestyle. Tennessee’s Renato Gueraldi also finished his last meet as a double winner in the freestyle events taking first in the 50 and 100-yard races.
Freshman Megan Wolters also made a splash against Wright State taking home two titles in the 100-yard backstroke and 500-yard freestyle.
Tennessee’s Phillip Jones and LSU’s Kyle VanArsdall will be fighting for the titles in the one and three meter diving events. Both divers won both the events in their last competition. VanArsdall also won the three meter against University of Florida.
Cavana is not sure who will be healthy enough to compete this weekend as the women’s swim team is dealing with a number of injuries, specifically back injuries.
“We’re a little bit banged up on the women’s side,” Cavana said. “We’re taking it day by day.”
The divers also are dealing with an injury as All-American Michelle Coryelle has been unable to compete this season due to a back injury.
The swimming and diving team swam at home last weekend in its first ever “phone-in” meet with Auburn. The original LSU-Auburn matchup was canceled due to Hurricane Lili.
The teams decided to swim at their respective schools on Oct. 25 and compare the scores. LSU sent its information to Auburn and is waiting for the results from Auburn.
The conference matchups continue next week as LSU takes on Alabama and Arkansas Nov. 9 for its fourth straight home meet.