The University of Idaho Swimming and Diving team will battle conference foe and regional rival Seattle University at noon, Saturday, in its second consecutive home meet at the UI Swim Center.

The Vandals are coming off a home-opener loss to Boise State University last weekend, but there is plenty to be optimistic about heading into this Saturday.  Sophomore Rachel Millet and junior Paige Hunt were chosen the Western Athletic Conference Swimmer and Diver of the week for their performances against BSU.  Hunt earned an NCAA zone qualifying score of 283.80 on her way to winning the 3-meter event.  Millet won the 100- and 200-yard freestyle events as well as the 200-yard IM. 

Freshmen Jamie Sterbis and Janelle Stacy kicked off their collegiate careers in strong fashion.  Sterbis finished second in the 100-yard fly and Janelle Stacy placed third in the 200-yard backstroke. 

Coach Mark Sowa said that while there is room for improvement, he was impressed with how well the team is starting off this season compared to last season.

“Overall, I just think if you compare a year ago at this time to what we did last week, across the board the team is better,” Sowa said.

Idaho will be Seattle U's second opponent in two days.  The Redhawks face Washington State the day before in what will be their first meet of the season.  Idaho defeated Seattle last season in a double dual with UC Davis.