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Seniors say goodbye in home finale

For the seniors on the University of Arizona's men's swimming and diving team, this weekend's meet should be filled with emotions.

Not only are the No. 2 Wildcats taking on the top-ranked Texas Longhorns, but the meet also marks the last time the 10 seniors will compete at the Hillenbrand Aquatic Center.

"This is the best men's class in the history of Wildcat swimming and diving," said Frank Busch, men's and women's head coach.

Besides the 10 men, seven members of the women's team will be recognized in a pre-meet ceremony to honor their accomplishments over their careers.

The men's team (5-1, 2-1 Pacific 10 Conference) enters this meet on a winning note after recently upsetting then-No. 2 Stanford.

Busch said there are no individual races that he considers must-wins, but each finish will be very important in order for the teams to win.

The Longhorns(5-0) have stayed on top of all of the Speedo America College Swimming Coaches Association Top 25 poll. Both the UA men's and women's teams are ranked second.

The women's team is facing a Longhorn squad that is ranked No. 12 in the nation.

The Arizona women (7-2, 3-1 Pac-10) are coming off a strong performance against California and Stanford last weekend. Arizona had strong performances from freshmen Beth Botsford and Amanda Beard. The Texas women (1-4) are coming off their first victory against Florida.

"We must take on this meet as though Texas is the top-ranked team in the country," Botsford said. "With the conference and NCAA Championships approaching, these final meets are key for our preparation."

The men's senior class is one of the most successful classes in Arizona history, with 48 All-American selections.

The women's class has also been successful, as its seven seniors have earned 33 All-American selections.