The chance to swim for a Division I program that is only about a 45-minute drive from Cape Girardeau was simply too good an opportunity for Jason Owen to pass up.

Owen, a Cape Girardeau Central High senior, recently signed a letter of intent with Southern Illinois University in Carbondale.

"I'm really excited about it," said Owen. "They have a good Division I program, usually finishing in the top 25 of 30 (at nationals). I like the swimmers there and the people."

Owen pointed out that his family is happy with his decision.

"They're happy they can come watch me swim," he said. "And I can come back and watch Nathan play basketball whenever I want."

Owen's older brother, Nathan, is a sophomore guard on Southeast Missouri State University's basketball team.

Owen had a standout junior season for Central's Tigers, finishing second in both the 200 freestyle and 500 freestyle at the state meet. He has his sights set on a state championship this year.

"I'd definitely like to win this year," he said. "I think I have a pretty good chance. And I'd like for our team to do better."

Owen has high hopes for the Tigers, who return 12 seniors from last year's squad that finished 14th at the state meet. Central opens the new campaign Tuesday at home against Lafayette.

"Our team is looking good," he said. "Last year was pretty good, but we didn't have a lot of state competitors, so we didn't compete the greatest at state. But with all the seniors we have, I think we'll do really well this year."

Owen said he is not sure about his college major, although he is leaning toward something in the biology or even pre-medicine field. He said he may look into becoming a doctor.

Central coach Dayna Powell believes attending SIU will turn out to be a good decision for the Tigers' standout.

"I think it's a good opportunity for Jason," said Powell. "They've got a good program and he'll be able to get a good education. I'm sure it's nice to have the decision made so he can concentrate on having a big senior season and really swimming some fast times."