The Bears opened up the swimming and diving dual season with astounding results.  Missouri State defeated the Western Illinois Leathernecks 161-112 on the men's side, and 156-120 on the women's side.  The Bears had numerous freshmen swimming in the contest and they were up to the task.

On the men's side, freshmen Nicholas Carter, Niklas Gustafsson and Frankie DeMaria all won their individual events.  For the women, freshmen Marta Nogueroles continued to impress by finishing first in the 200-yard freestyle.   Last year's freshman of the year for the women, Brianna Willoughby, also had a strong showing, finishing tops in the 100-yard backstroke and 100-yard freestyle. 

As a team, the strongest event for Missouri State was the 200-yard freestyle.  Both teams finished first, second and third in the event

Some events were not scored for the bears, however.  Even in these events, the times were very impressive. 

The Bears will use the momentum from this victory to propel them into Iowa City Iowa, where they will take on the Hawkeyes of the University of Iowa.  The meet will begin at 11 a.m. on Oct. 24.  This will be one of the toughest competitions for the Bears this season, as Iowa finished last season as one of the most formidable teams in the country.

Missouri State will return home on Oct. 31 for their homecoming meet against Drury University.