Swimming and diving is set to host the annual Patriot Invitational beginning on Thursday and ending Saturday evening at the Jim McKay Natatorium in the Aquatic Center.  This year, the event will host eight schools and a total of 328 competitors in the three day meet.  Mason will face off against American, George Washington, Howard, Seton Hall, Shippensburg, UMBC and UNCW.

The Patriots are coming off tough losses from both the men's and women's teams in the CAA POD Meet and are looking to get back on track.  For the men, the most consistent performer has been senior diver Derrick Butts.  Butts has won the 1-meter and 3-meter dives in each of Mason's last four competitions.  He has also won CAA Male Diver of the Week in each of his last four meets and set three records so far this season.  For the women, standout senior swimmer Ashley Danner has been dominant in the 100-yard breaststroke and the 200-yard breaststroke all year, winning both events in all three meets she has competed in this season.

The events this week will commence on Thursday at 10am with the first round of prelims.  Lot C, Lot A, and Lot L will be available for spectator parking.  Shenandoah Parking deck will also be available for a fee.  There will also be live stats available online throughout the three day competition.