The Gators men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams will take their first plane ride of the year up to the midwest to face Minnesota.
The No. 7 men’s (3-0) and No. 10 women’s (3-0) squads are both undefeated to start the year. The men are looking for their first 4-0 start since the 2013-14 season, while the women will attempt to post back-to-back 4-0 starts.
Here’s what to expect from both squads on Saturday:
Women’s
The No. 10 Gators lead the all-time series with the No. 18 Gophers 2-1-1. Their first matchup was during the 2003-04 season.
Some UF athletes to look out for are Kelly Fertel, Sherridon Dressel and Ashley McCool.
Fertel posted her fastest 400 IM time two weeks ago, while Dressel recorded her second-fastest 100 back time.
McCool took five-of-six diving events in Florida’s first three events to start the season, and won SEC Diver of the Week last week.
Coach Jeff Poppell commented on Florida’s upcoming matchup against Minnesota in a release.
“They are extremely well-coached and I have no doubt that they will represent a tough challenge for us,” he said.
The Gators hit the water at 7 p.m.
Men’s
UF’s No. 7 men’s squad will go up against the Gophers in another non-conference matchup.
Florida is 6-1 against Minnesota all-time, with the two teams also meeting for the first time in the 2003-04 season.
Some athletes to watch out for on this stacked men’s lineup include Robert Finke, Clark Beach, Alex Farrow and Nick Lydon.
Finke posted his best-ever swim time in the 200 free during opening weekend, while Beach notched his fastest recorded time in the 200 back.
Farrow and Lydon posted personal best scores in the 1-meter dive.
Coach Anthony Nesty said Minnesota presents a challenge as an opponent.
“It'll be good to get on the road and compete against an opponent we don't get to see very often,” he said.
The men’s dual meet will begin at 7 p.m.
Follow Dylan O'Shea on Twitter @dylanoshea24. Contact him at doshea@alligator.org
