February 24, 1999

BIG TEN PREVIEW: Michigan State will travel to Bloomington, Ind., to compete in the Big Ten Championships Feb. 25-27. This year the Spartans are looking to improve on last years 10th-place finish as they face defending champion Minnesota and the rest of their conference rivals.

With a 4-4 record (1-4 Big Ten), the Spartans are optimistic going into the meet that they will see some improvement from a year ago with some help from veterans.

This will be the last Big Ten Championship for MSUs three seniors: Daniel Bacheler, John Bruesch and Mike Mulshine. They have provided the leadership necessary to help advance the Spartans up the ladder of success. Each has contributed to the team with their Big Ten experience.

Last year, Bacheler competed in the 200, 500 and 1,6500-yard freestyle events. Bruesch finished eighth in the 100 breaststroke and 10th in the 200 breaststroke, while also contending in the 200 and 400 medley relays. Mulshine claimed 12th place in the 100 butterfly and 16th in the 200 butterfly along with competing in the 50 freestyle, 200 and 400 medley relays.

SOPHOMORE STARS: This year five sophomores with Big Ten experience highlight the Spartan roster.

John Munley leads the Spartans with a 1997 fifth-place finish in the 200-yard freestyle (1:38.38) and a 13th-place finish in the 500 freestyle. Michael Tingley also finished 13th in the 200 backstroke and swam in the 100 backstroke, 200 individual medley and 400 medley relay a year ago.

Tim Gendler, Shawn Holland and Chris Koerner look to contribute more points with improvement upon last years finishes. Last year, Gendler competed in the 100 and 200 backstroke and the 200 individual medley. Holland contended in the 50 and 100 freestyle and the 100 butterfly events. Koerner competed in the 100 and 200 breaststroke and the 200 individual medley.