Some people say the preseason means nothing.

In the case of the NIU swim teams, this could not be further from the truth.

As the Huskies prepare for their first conference meet this weekend with Ball State and Miami, Ohio, already they have a lot to be proud of.

The women’s side has seen the emergence of two top swimmers.

Andree Dallain and Erika Nilsson consistently have put up top times and helped the Huskies end an 11-year losing streak against Illinois State.

“My fly has been great,” said Dallain of her early season success. “I need to work on my free and distance, but that will come with time. I’m not really worried because it is the beginning of the season.”

The men’s side also has seen great results from the early part of the season.

Head coach Anne Marie Stricklin’s team takes a 3-1 record into Ohio. The team’s only loss came to Big Ten representative Wisconsin in the first meet of the season.

The men have been aided by the performance of Hungarian Andres Schonek. Schonek has been the most consistent swimmer for the Huskies this season, capturing five wins in six races this fall, good enough for an .833 winning percentage.

Diver Tony Marinaccio said all the pieces are falling into place at the right time.

“I think we are pretty strong,” the St. Charles native said. “We are coming together as a team and getting a grasp on each other.”

This weekend’s contest should be a good measuring stick for the rest of the conference season.

Last year’s meeting in Muncie, Ind., saw the men’s team handle the hosts 148-95 and slip by the Redhawks 127-116.

The women did not have as much luck dropping both decisions.

“I think we will do great,” Dallain said. “We have a good chance of winning against Ball State. Miami will be tough competition.”