Contact: Jeff Sattora

Grand Cayman Islands- With the winter holiday break, swimming teams around the country often get a chance to travel and compete. The Cleveland State Vikings were no different as both the men's and women's team traveled to the Grand Cayman Islands for the Green Turtle Invitational.

Although the invitational had a limited event schedule against the Grand Cayman Island Club Team, multiple CSU swimmers were able to pick up victories.

Winners for the Viking women were Alice Sommerville in the 200 IM, Jamie Puls in the 50 freestyle, and Alexandra Johanssonin the 50 backstroke.

For the men, winners included Berry Thompson in the 50 freestyle, Alex Lewis in the 50 butterfly,Nathan Grant in the 50 breaststroke, Al Shillito in the 50 backstroke, and Justin Kermackin the 200 IM.

For Head Coach Wally Morton the whole trip was a great experience for CSU.

"We had a lot of fun at the Green Turtle Invitational," said Morton. "Our main objective was to have fun and do a little racing, but we want to train hard and do so with a purpose."

"The team has had 100% attendance at all the practices," Morton added. "I want to thank the Cayman Island Swimming Association for hosting the meet."

Cleveland State will be looking to use the trip and experience to prepare to jump back into its collegiate schedule this Saturday when they host Oakland and Xavier.

"It's time to get ready for two quality opponents on Saturday with Xavier and Oakland," Morton said following the meet this weekend. "Both programs are excellent with Oakland being one of the best Mid-Major programs in the nation."

"It will be very challenging for this tired team with all the travel involved but I believe we can swim well in our friendly waters," he added.

Those friendly waters Morton mentioned are those of the Robert F. Busbey Natatorium where the Vikings will host the meet against Oakland and Xavier Saturday at 1:00 p.m. on the CSU campus.