Feb. 6, 2008

Contact: Gene Natale, Jr.

CLEVELAND, Ohio - Dan Baiko received his fifth diver of the week honor following his performance in a dual meet against UIC, as the league office announced Wednesday.

Baiko scored a 277.80 in the one-meter to win the event. He followed that performance with a score of 347.20 in the three-meter dive to win that event as well. His showing in the three-meter was a career best performance.

"He had a great three-meter especially, setting him up well for the league championship," diving coach Rich Karban said, "He has had a great year of success, working hard, and it is great to see him get the recognition."

Baiko's mark in the three-meter is currently the best score in the Horizon League. His best effort this season in the one-meter of 296.40 is good for a third place ranking in the league.

"Dan will continue to work hard and hopefully he will have the same success at the Horizon League Championship," Karban continued.

Senior Dave Duecker received honorable mention for swimmer of the week. He won three events against UIC, the 1,000 free (9:43.41), 200 butterfly (1:51.85) and the 500 free (4:43.81). His 1,000 time was a season best. For the women's team, Katie Bellew also received honorable mention for swimmer of the week after she won the 200 butterfly (2:12.61) and 200 breaststroke (2:28.58) on Saturday.

The Vikings are idle from competition until the Horizon League Swimming and Diving Championships, which will be held at the Robert F. Busbey Natatorium from February 20-23.