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Feb. 18, 2010

CHICAGO - The UIC Natatorium will be the site for the 2010 Horizon League Championships this year, as the UIC men's swimming and diving team look to defend their 2009 title.

"We are excited to have home pool advantage," said head coach Paul Moniak "We know that the competition will be fierce and tight and it's nice to race in your own pool."

The men took home the hardware last season and are looking to keep the championship in Chicago.

Sprinter Brian Anderson ranks third in the league in the 50 and 100 freestyle events this season, and holds school records in the 100 and 200 freestyle events.

Mid-distance swimmer Luke Martinez broke the 200 backstroke school record this season, and leads the league in the 200 IM this season. The Sugar Groove native also ranks second in the 200 IM and 200 backstroke.

Distance swimmer Zach Van Swol holds the second best time in the league for the 1000 freestyle on the 09-10 campaign. In the 500 and 1650 freestyle events, Van Swol ranks in the top five.

In diving, newcomer Mike Grecco made a splash for the Flames in his first collegiate season. The freshman ranks in the top five in the three meter dive and in the top ten in the one meter dive.

UIC holds the top times in three of the five relay events

"We know that we have a bulls-eye on our back coming into the meet," stated Moniak "The core is back from last season championship team and they will be ready to step up and race for the championship."

The women finished just 18 points out of third place last season at the Championships, and are looking for a top three finish this season at home.

Emily Gniatczyk has made her mark in Flames history in her first season, capturing the 200 freestyle school record and ranking in the top five in the 50, 100, and 200 freestyle events in the conference.

"We are looking for big things from Emily at the meet," said Moniak "She should make a big impact on our relay teams."

Clair Martin continued her success in her second season at UIC. The mid-distance swimmer is ranked first in the 100 backstroke and second in the 200 backstroke going into the championships.

Distance swimmer McKinzie Jacobs ranks in the top ten of the Horizon League in the 1650 freestyle

"Based on the rankings it's going to be a very exciting meet," stated Moniak.

The Horizon League Championships will start on Wednesday Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. at the UIC Natatorium located in the Physical Education Building.

UIC Flames Women's Swimming

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