Coming off an impressive two-game win streak against the Northern Iowa and the University of Nebraska-Omaha, the Cyclone swimming and diving team looks to continue their winning ways at home this Friday against Illinois State University. 

The Cyclones (4-3) pieced together yet another medley relay win in their last outing against Northern Iowa (5-3), making that number seven on the season. In addition, the Cyclones won 11 of 13 events in a dominating display against the Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks (2-4). 

Iowa State now faces the Illinois State Redbirds (5-2) this Friday in what should be a tight matchup just weeks before the Big 12 Championship.

Illinois State is also coming off of a big win against Davenport University (4-5), and Coach Duane Sorenson acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead.

“They’ve [Illinois State] got some good depth so it’s going to be a good competition,” Sorenson said. “They have some good individuals and are very solid all around.”

As the season steadily comes to a close, this matchup against Illinois State could prove instrumental in the Cyclones’ preparations for the Big 12 Championship. 

“Everything we do in practice is geared toward the Big 12 Championship,” Sorenson said. “We want to win the dual meets and do really well but if we don’t, we’re not going to sacrifice a dual meet for the Big 12 Championship.” 

With only three dual meets until the Big 12 Championship, it is clear the Cyclones’ main focus is preparing for the competition, even if that entails losing a dual meet. 

The Cyclones will seek to put together a strong performance to prepare for the Big 12 Championship Friday at 5 p.m. at Beyer Pool in Beyer Hall.