Although it has come to Shanghai with a star-studded lineup, the United States swimming team is keeping relatively low key and is wary of China's home advantage.

"We don't have any secrets or surprises coming here. We came here for a great competition and as a step up to next year, (we are) not focusing on medals," Eddie Reese, the US men's squad's coach, told a press conference on Saturday.

Spearheaded by 14-time Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps and fellow star swimmer Ryan Lochte, the 42-strong US roster also features Natalie Coughlin and Rebecca Soni on the women's side.

After tuning up in Shanghai for a week, the US swimmers have hailed the event's venues and expect a strong challenge from the Chinese team in its home pool.

"It's a great venue. The water temperature, the atmosphere, the services are really motivating," said Soni, who won the Beijing Olympics' 200m breaststroke gold medal.

"China has really done a great job in swimming over the past couple of years. Some Chinese swimmers will go to the next level, being world No 1 in some of the events soon. This time, those guys will do their best and probably claim world titles in front of the home crowd. You can never count out somebody in his or her home country, "said veteran Jason Lezak, a Beijing Games bronze medalist in the 200m freestyle.

The women's squad's coach, Jack Bauerle, echoed the thoughts of the US swimmers, citing an "incredible environment" for the rise of Chinese swimming.

"China is becoming serious about its swimming. You have to remember swimmers usually do a good job with their mum, dad or friends in the stands. If 15,000 people cheer for you, it will help," said Bauerle.

(China Daily 07/24/2011 page7)