Dec. 7, 2005
NORMAL, Ill. -Illinois State's Kyle Pullman was awarded Missouri Valley Conference Swimmer of the Week honor after the impressive weekend at the SummaCare Invitational in Akron, Ohio. Pullman, a junior, was in two relays that took first place. The two relays happened to be the only two events the Redbirds won. The 200-yard freestyle relay opened the weekend with a victory and the 400-yard freestyle relay ended the weekend with a victory.
The team traveled to Akron University to compete in a three-day invitational and came out victorious. Pullman was a key contributor to the team's success over the weekend and accomplished several personal bests. Not only did she accomplish personal bests, she currently holds the top position in the Valley in the 50-yard freestyle with a time of 23.86 and the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 52.19. Head coach Steve Paska was pleased with the honor.
"It was well deserved," Paska said. "She was very instrumental to the team's success this weekend and she earned it with her performance. Kyle is a gifted and talented swimmer. It is very rewarding to see this happen, and I am eager to see what she can do and look forward to her performance in the Missouri Valley Conference."
Pullman swam on three relay teams this past weekend contributing to the overall success of the team. Two of the relay teams took first, including the 200-yard freestyle relay with a time of 1:36.55 and the 400-yard freestyle relay with a time of 3:31.05. The 400-yard freestyle relay currently holds the number one spot in the Missouri Valley Conference. Pullman wasn't expecting the award, but was happy to be honored.
"I just found out two hours ago," said Pullman. "This was really nice, and it is an honor. This season I have worked harder than seasons past. I plan to continue my training in preparation for upcoming meets."
The Redbirds will be competing at the Ed Kennedy Meet in Fort Lauder Dale, Fla. on December 31.
