North Carolina State University Athletics
Wolfpack Men's Swimming Heads to ACC Championships
2/23/2005 12:00:00 AM | Swimming
Feb. 23, 2005
RALEIGH, N.C. - Cullen Jones knows what it takes to win at the ACC Championships, winning two titles in his sophomore season a year ago. NC State men's swimming and diving is hoping Jones will rub off on the rest of the team at the 2005 ACC Championships in Atlanta, Ga. Jones currently has the top time in the 50 freestyle and the second fastest in the 100 free in the ACC and is perhaps the favorite to repeat his performance. Kevin Velleca, Steve Cowling and two Wolfpack relay teams will look to make waves and attempt to qualify for the NCAA Championships as well.
Jones' time in the 50 free, a 19.96, is the eighth fastest time in the nation this year. His 100 free (44.71) is in the top-50 nationally as well.
Two relay teams, the 200 medley (Velleca, Dan Velez, Kevin Devine and Jones) and the 400 medley (Cowling, Velez, Lyle Babcock and Jones) will look to improve on the fourth fastest and third fastest time in the conference, respectively.
Peter Pessagno will compete in the distance events, as will Chris Nixon. Rob Yeager could medal in the 100 and 200 breast, as well as the 200 IM. Babcock will be solid in the 100 and 200 butterfly, with Cowling providing a spark in the backstroke and IM events.
The ACC Championships run Feb. 23-26 in Atlanta, Ga.
