Defending Champion Virginia Chasing NCAA Women’s History During 2025-2026 Campaign
The University of Virginia has dominated women’s swimming at the NCAA level since 2021, winning five consecutive national championships. While the Cavaliers have benefited from the power of superstars such as Kate Douglass, Alex Walsh and Gretchen Walsh, UVA’s depth throughout the roster cannot go overlooked. Every year, the school receives valuable contributions down the scoring table.
This season, Virginia is chasing a sixth consecutive title, a feat that has never been achieved in the women’s collegiate ranks. From 1984-1988, the Univesity of Texas won five straight team crowns, but finished as the runnerup to Stanford at the 1989 NCAA Champs. Meanwhile, Stanford captured five consecutive championships from 1992-1996, but placed second to the University of Southern California during the 1997 season.
Virginia will open its season on September 27 with an exhibition meet at the Naval Academy. That matchup will be followed by a meeting with the University of Florida on October 10.
As the Cavaliers pursue a sixth straight NCAA title, there is plenty of veteran leadership in which to turn, including the likes of Claire Curzan, Emma Weber, Tess Howley and Leah Hayes. Meanwhile, the Cavs boast a sensational freshman class that features international standouts Sara Curtis (Italy) and Lana Pudar (Bosnia and Herzegovina), along with American talent in Madi Mintenko.
Are we months away from Virginia making history? It’s certainly a storyline to follow.
