Oct. 22, 2003

Columbia, Mo. - On Friday, October 24, the University of Missouri men's and women's swimming and diving teams will hold a promotional event at the University Natatorium to give fans the opportunity to meet the athletes.

This season looks to be another record-setting season for the Tigers as they return several Big 12 Champions, NCAA qualifiers, and 2004 Olympic Trials qualifiers. Seniors Tyler Belanger, Andrea Nigh, Rebecca Wolfe, Sarah Lo, and junior Matt North will be just a few of the Tigers on hand to sign posters for fans.

Tyler Belanger is a team co-captain and is currently listed among the all-time top-five times in the 400 and 800-yard freestyle relays.

Andrea Nigh is also a team-captain. Nigh is the best freestyle swimmer in Missouri history. Nigh competed in the 2004 NCAA Championships and is a school record holder in 50 and 100-yard freestyle.

Rebecca Wolfe is the best butterfly swimmer Missouri has ever seen. Wolfe is a two-time Big 12 Champion in the 200 fly. Wolfe also competed in the NCAA Championships in the 200 butterfly and she recently qualified for the 2004 Olympic Trials in the 200 butterfly.

Sarah Lo is another NCAA qualifier. Lo is among the top-five times in the 100 and 200-yard backstroke, 100-yard breaststroke, and the 200 IM. Lo is also a school record holder in the 100 and 200 backstroke.

Junior Matt North recently qualified to compete in the 2004 U.S. Olympic Trials. North's times in the 100 and 200-yard breaststroke and the 200 IM rank him among the all-time top-five times in Missouri history.

"We really just want to give fans the opportunity to meet the team and maybe get a few autographs while they are enjoying other homecoming festivities," said Missouri Head Coach Brian Hoffer.

The University Natatorium is located at the corner of Rollins Ave. and Maryland Ave just across from Cornell Hall.

The Tigers are back in action on October 31 at 5:00 pm as they take on the Division II defending National Champions Truman State Bulldogs.