Cyclone Swimmers Face In-State Rivals Iowa

AMES, Iowa- Friday will mark the 35th dual meet between the swimming and diving teams of Iowa State and Iowa as part of the Hy-Vee Cy-Hawk Series. The meet starts at 6 p.m. from Beyer Pool, admission is free.

Iowa scored a 196-104 victory last season in Iowa City. The Cyclones are behind the Hawkeyes 21-13 in the all-time series but ISU has prevailed three of the last four times the meet was in Ames.

“We always seem to swim a little bit better at home just because you are used to the blocks and the walls,” Iowa State head coach Duane Sorenson said “You also don't have to travel and you are more pumped up to defend your home turf.”

The rivalry has historically been close with the meet being decided by five points or less three times. Included among those was the closest meet in Iowa State history, a 75-74 win at Iowa on Dec. 12, 1981 and the last meeting between the two squads in Ames, a 152-148 Cyclone victory.

“We want them to enjoy the experience,” Sorenson said. “We expect a big crowd here. Both teams bring the best out of each other and rise to the occasion. No matter what it looks like on paper, it should come down to touch outs between the two teams.”

Iowa State will also be looking to make a contribution to the competitive Hy-Vee Cy-Hawk Series.

“The Cy-Hawk series is a big thing for both school's fans,” Sorenson said. “Anytime the two schools face each other, everyone pays more attention. Since the series is going to be so close and with three contests going on on-campus this week; whoever wins the majority of events will be in good shape to win the series.”

The divers will look to do their part as well in knocking off Iowa. Tien Tran has been on fire as of late, winning the last nine diving events she has entered.

“Her experience has really made a difference,” diving coach Jeff Warrick said. “Being a senior, she has had all that practice behind her and she is really confident.”

Warrick will also be looking for more out of his divers in the home environment.

“The advantage is big,” Warrick said. “It's our pool, the divers know the boards and we are going to take advantage of that. It is our home pool, we are going to show that and it is going to be an exciting meet.”