CLEVELAND – The Missouri State men's swimming and diving team was selected to finish third in the Mid-American Conference in the 2016-17 preseason coaches' poll, announced by the league Tuesday, Oct. 18.

The Bears received one first-place vote, finishing ahead of Miami (Ohio), Southern Illinois, Ball State and Evansville. Eastern Michigan finished first with four first-place votes while Buffalo was picked second and is favored to win the MAC Championship.

"Based on last year's results, that is the position I would have expected us to be picked," head coach Dave Collins said. "That being said, I don't put much stock in preseason polls and, as always, our goal is to win a team championship."

Last season, the Bears finished third and won four individual titles at the MAC Championships. Miguel Davila won his third 1650-yard free conference title while Minki Kang finished second, recording a career-best time of 15:18.41 in the event. Artur Osvath, the 2015-16 MAC Freshman Swimmer of the Year, shattered the Missouri State school record with a time of 1:55.04 to win the gold medal in the 200yd breaststroke.

Osvath became the ninth swimmer from Missouri State and first freshman in program history to qualify for the NCAA Championships. Osvath wrapped up the NCAA Championships with a 17^th place finish in the 200yd breaststroke.

The Bears opened up the 2016-17 season at the Missouri Show-Me Showdown where the squad finished second behind host Missouri with 511.5 points. Missouri State tallied 17 top-five performances highlighted by first-place finishes from Osvath and freshman Antonio Thomas.

"I like this team a lot and I really like the training that is taking place," added Collins. "I feel we can have a very special year."
 
2016 MAC Men's Swimming and Diving Coaches' Preseason Poll (First-Place Votes)
1. Eastern Michigan (4)
2. Buffalo (1)
3. Missouri State (1)
4. Miami
5. Southern Illinois
6. Ball State
7. Evansville
MAC Championship: Buffalo
 
The Bears continue competition in Lawrence, Kan., where the team will face-off against Kansas and North Dakota on Oct. 21-22. Friday's meet is set to begin at 5 p.m. and Saturday's competition is slated for 12 p.m.