Women’s Dual Meets to Watch During the NCAA Season
After six months, the wait is finally over. College swimming has returned for its 43rd season as a women’s NCAA sport, sure to be a historic one. For weeks, we’ve eagerly anticipated the 2025-26 campaign, and the high-level performances it will bring. Now, with the season upon us, here’s a look at some of the top women’s dual meets to watch this season.
5. Louisville at Indiana – January 30
One of the only non-conference meets on this list, the Cardinals and the Hoosiers’ late season showdown sneaks onto this list for good reason. Louisville upset Indiana a year ago, with the Hoosiers missing multiple team members due to illness and injury. Sprinter Julia Dennis will be an athlete to watch in this dual meet while Indiana will look to get revenge on senior day. They will need a strong effort from Miranda Grana, among the NCAA’s best in the backstroke.
4. Indiana at Michigan – January 9
A Big Ten battle comes in at No. 4 on our list. The Hoosiers and Wolverines will be two of the top teams in the conference, making this matchup enticing. Indiana will look for strong meets from Kristina Paegle and Brearna Crawford once again, as both played a key role in the Hoosiers’ dominant win a year ago. Michigan, meanwhile, will turn to the multi-event talents of Bella Sims.
3. Tennessee at Texas – October 24
Star sophomore Jillian Cox will lead the Longhorns, who will try to remain among the top programs in the country. Freshman Eva Okoro, a budding star from Great Britain, provides a boost in the sprint events. The Volunteers return a good amount of depth from last year, including junior Camille Spink, a standout sprinter. A statement against the Longhorns at home would go a long way for the program.
2. Stanford at Cal – January 31
One of the greatest rivalry meets in college swimming lands at No. 2 on this list. Stanford-Cal should still be one for the ages, with Olympian Torri Huske headlining for the Cardinal. Cal will turn to a star-studded recruiting class, one that includes newcomers Teagan O’Dell and Claire Weinstein.
1. Virginia at Florida – October 10
Our top-ranked meet is one scheduled earlier than any other on this list, and will be a test to start the season for both teams. Virginia opens the season as the five-time defending NCAA champion, and features a mix of veteran firepower and youth. Look for Claire Curzan and Leah Hayes to excel for the Cavs. The Gators will have their hands full, but Julie Brousseau and Anita Botazzo bring starpower to the roster.
