Saint Mary’s Adds Full Aquatics Program with Swimming and Water Polo
Saint Mary’s College in California on Wednesday announced the addition of a full aquatics program, including men’s and women’s swimming and men’s and women’s water polo.
The Division I school in the Bay Area will start with an initial 80 student-athlete spots, which could grow to 100. Intercollegiate competition in all sports will begin with the 2026-27 school year.
“While many NCAA institutions across the country are scaling back athletics, Saint Mary’s is making a bold commitment to expand opportunities for students,” Saint Mary’s President Roger Thompson said in a university press release. “Our new Aquatics program builds on the Bay Area’s rich tradition in swimming and water polo, and affirms our belief that athletics are a vital part of the student experience.”
The swim team will join the Mountain Pacific Sports Federation. Women’s water polo will join the Golden Coast Conference, while the men’s water polo team will compete in the university’s broader conference home of the West Coast Conference.
Saint Mary’s has entered into a partnership with Campolindo High School for use of its Soda Aquatics Center, which includes an Olympic-sized swimming pool. The college will “be developing a state-of-the-art aquatics facility of its own in the coming years,” per the release. The school has an on-campus Joseph L. Alioto Recreation Center to house the Gaels’ new programs on a daily basis. The school is hoping to tap into what it sees as unmet interest in California in particular.
“Our vision for aquatics at Saint Mary’s will only be realized through the passion and generosity of those who care deeply about this sport,” Thompson said. “This is a unique moment to make a meaningful impact—not just for today’s student-athletes, but for the countless Gaels and community members who will benefit from a dedicated aquatics home for decades to come. Together, we can build something enduring, something that reflects the values of our College and the deep tradition of excellence in aquatics across California.”
“The CSCAA congratulates Saint Mary’s College on the exciting decision to establish both men’s and women’s swimming programs,” CSCAA Executive Director Samantha Barany said. “This strategic move not only complements the campus and the mission of the school, but also builds on its location within a thriving hub of swimming excellence. We look forward to partnering with President Thompson and his team to launch these programs in a meaningful and sustainable way.”
Coaching positions will be listed on Sept. 15, with a goal for appointments in mid-October.
“We are committed to hiring coaches who not only bring a track record of competitive success, but who also embody the values that make Saint Mary’s unique,” Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Mike Matoso said. “Their leadership will be critical as we build programs that reflect excellence in the pool and the classroom, and that provide a transformative experience for our student-athletes.”
