Intrasquad meet to preview season

Is the Michigan women's swimming and diving team on the road to its unprecedented 12th straight Big Ten title? Only times will tell.

And times are exactly what coach Jim Richardson will get tomorrow at the Michigan intrasquad meet at Canham Natatorium.

Despite losing a highly talented class to graduation, the Wolverines look very strong again this season. Tomorrow's meet will be a chance to get some of the new talent on the clock. And the coach is eager to get started.

"We're going to have some areas where we'll be better than we've ever been before," Richardson said.

Topping the list are all three freestyle relays, each of which Richardson feels has a shot at an NCAA record. The medley relays also have very good potential but hinge on the health of two essential members.

MARGARET MYERS/Daily Although the season is still a few weeks away, the Michigan women's swimming team is gearing up already. The Wolverines will hold an intrasquad meet tomorrow for a team that features several new faces.

Freshman backstroke sensation Jen Crisman is suffering from mononucleosis and will not compete at tomorrow's meet. Breastroker and fifth-year senior Rachel Gustin is recovering from arthroscopic shoulder surgery and is listed as questionable.

Individual events are also looking strong. The team has lost some depth in the distance freestyle events, but the specialty strokes make up for it. Senior Talor Bendel leads the Michigan butterfliers in their assault on the Big Ten, and senior Linda Riker is a proven leader in Michigan's backstroke squad.

The freshman class will also add depth to the Michigan attack. Though last year's graduating class seemed irreplaceable, this year's incoming class is equally impressive.

"It's a very good freshman class," Richardson said. "I like what I see."

Though the freshmen will provide an extra punch for team, Richardson is relying on senior leadership to pave the way for a successful season.

"This team has the potential to be a top 10 team at the NCAAs and will be a team that will contend for the Big Ten title," Richardson said.

As for the intrasquad meet, times are always interesting, but Richardson emphasized that there is a long season ahead.

"We're just trying to build strength and endurance in the water - and if a little speed comes with it, we won't be disappointed."

10-16-97