After months of preparation and success, Cleveland’s undefeated men’s swimming team prepares for their biggest challenge of the year against the Wilson Trojans.

            “We’ve done really well this year,” said Captain Ben Close-Kung, “and we’re really confident about our meet against Wilson.”

            Under the leadership of Close-Kung, Co-Captain Grant Rommel, and outstanding junior Brandon Risley, the Warriors have essentially solidified a spot in this year’s state meet. The top two PIL teams make it to state, and other than Wilson, Cleveland really has not had any competition.

            “We have about 50 people on our men’s and women’s teams, and when we go up against schools like Madison who have around 10 we’re basically racing against ourselves,” said Close-Kung.

            The Trojans however pose the biggest threat to ruining Cleveland’s undefeated season, as they too are undefeated against the same schools Cleveland has been defeating. Wilson dropped down from the 6A bracket to Cleveland’s home 5A bracket at the beginning of the 2010-2011 school year, and have been giving the Warriors trouble in almost every sport this year.

            “They’re a tough team, and we’ve never really had a challenge before,” said Close-Kung, “but I think that we’re up for it.”

            When it comes to the team’s goals once the season is over, the team plans to just take it as it comes. Understanding that the PIL is a relatively weak division, the Warriors are not expected to see much success at the state meet, with the exception of Risely. Placing ninth in last year’s competition, many believe that he has the potential to win it all this year.

            First though, they have to deal with Wilson.

            At press time, the meet against Wilson on Jan. 21 had not yet happened. Cleveland’s coach was unavailable for comment.