Nov. 17, 2004

Two members of Cleveland State's Swedish connection have been named the Horizon League Swimmers of the Week for Nov. 16, the league announced. Sophomore Marianne Lionell (Sodertalje, Sweden) received the award for the women's team, while sophomore Bjorn Schantz (Loddekopinge, Sweden) was recognized on the men's squad.

Schantz swam to Cleveland State's only win against Eastern Michigan on Friday Nov. 12, posting a 4:34.60 in the 500 freestyle. He also placed second in the 1,000 freestyle (9:32.93) and scored a win in the 200 freestyle (1:42.51) at the City College Meet on Monday (Nov. 15) at Busbey Natatorium.

"He's been one of the most pleasant surprises of the newcomers this year," men's head coach Wally Morton said. "He's turning out to be one of the best distance swimmers that we've ever had here. He's capable of doing tremendous things."

Lionell won three events in helping the Vikings go 3-0 in the City College Meet at Busbey Natatorium Monday (Nov. 15), winning the 50 freestyle (24.31), 100 freestyle (53.00) and the 100 breaststroke (1:06.15). Her 100 freestyle time was a team-best this season. She also picked up wins in the 50 freestyle (24.55) and 200 breaststroke (2:24.96) at Eastern Michigan on Friday (Nov. 12).

"Marianne hasn't been as quick as she was last year, but she has been much more consistent," women's head coach Mike Lehto said. "She has been healthy all year, and that has really helped. I'm looking forward to see how well she does at the Miami Invitational."

The pair are the third and fourth Vikings to receive Swimmer of the Week honors this year. Senior Samantha Jones was named Swimmer of the Week for the women's team on Nov. 9, while senior Luke Wilkens was honored from the men's team on Nov. 2.

Cleveland State will remain idle until the Miami Invitational on Dec. 3-5 in Oxford, Ohio.