Even though the Northwestern women’s swim team is 6-0 in nonconference dual meets, its 1-3 Big Ten record may be preventing it from getting a national ranking.
But when NU takes on No. 19 Michigan at 1 p.m. Saturday, that could change.
The Wildcats will be swimming in their home pool for the second week in a row. Last week they demolished No. 24 Tennessee at the Norris Aquatics Center.
NU coach Jimmy Tierney believes that being at home is important in swimming.
“It takes less out of you than a travel situation,” he said. “For divers, (being) on a diving board that you always practice on helps tremendously.”
Two consecutive wins against ranked opponents might be enough to vault NU into the Top 25, but Tierney doesn’t see it as a priority.
“Recognition is certainly a good thing to have for a team to feel they have accomplished something,” Tierney said. “But I feel that championship season is what its all about. Ultimately that’s where you earn your respect.”
After Saturday’s contest against Michigan, the Cats will have the opportunity to swim in home waters again next week against Ohio State.
But after the Feb. 1 matchup with the Buckeyes, NU will have 18 days to prepare for the start of “championship season.” The Big Ten Championships held in West Lafayette, Ind., kick off a pivotal month for the Cats.
But for now NU will have to focus on the present.
The Wolverines are fresh off a convincing win against Illinois, and will be hoping to capitalize on the Cats’ trouble beating conference opponents.
NU will not have the services of breaststroker Brielle Bovee for the fifth consecutive week. The sophomore hasn’t been able to to practice with the team due to her injured shoulder. Rather than risk doing further damage, Tierney said sitting Bovee is the best option.
Many NU swimmers have stepped up with Bovee sidelined, and the team has gone undefeated in her absence. As a result of her four-win weekend against Eastern Michigan and Michigan State, junior Erica Rose can now add National Swimmer of the Week to her long list of accolades.
So while Rose and the rest of the Cats’ swimmers may not be looking for a national ranking, an upset of Michigan may get them one.
No. 19 Michigan at NU
1 p.m., Saturday
Norris Aquatics Center
