SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- The Augustana  swimming team will dive into its shortened season with a dual against Sioux Falls on Friday then two dual meets against Northern State and UMary. Both events are being held at the Midco Aquatics Center in Sioux Falls. 

No spectators will be allowed in the Midco Aquatics Center but there will be a free live stream of both days on the NSIC Network. 

Quotable

"We are very excited to race this weekend." head coach Lindsie Micko said. "For most of our athletes, it's been 11 months. We are very grateful to have the opportunity. 

The ladies have done an amazing job of working hard and putting in the effort as we waited for this day. Our goal is to enjoy racing against someone besides ourselves."

About the Vikings

During the regular season last year, the Vikings earned their first-ever national ranking, checking in at No. 22 of the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America Top-25 poll. 

Augustana returns 18 members of their roster from last year and has added four freshmen. Of those returning is the NSIC Swimmer of the Year and Swimmer of the Meet in Taylor Beagle. Sophomore Ruth Huffman will look to improve from her NSIC Freshmen of the Year accolade. 

About the Opponents

Sioux Falls finished third last year just ahead of Augustana in the NSIC Championship. UMary placed fifth just behind Augustana. Northern State and Sioux Falls competed last week, where Sioux Falls won 170-84. This will be UMary's first competition of the season.

Swimmer to Watch 

Beagle has been named the Preseason Swimmer of the Year. The Lead, South Dakota, native is a three-time NCAA Championships qualifier and has earned All-America honors in the 1,000 and 1,650 freestyle events. 

--GoAugie.com--