BURNSVILLE, Minn. – The University of Jamestown was picked to finish ninth in the NSIC Swimming & Diving Preseason Coaches' Poll, announced on Thursday.

Minnesota State University, Mankato sits atop the poll as they amassed 77 points and six first place votes, finishing three points ahead of Augustana, which had 74 points and three first place votes.  St. Cloud State was third with 68 points and the final first place vote. Concordia-St. Paul (51) and Sioux Falls (44) round out the top five. 

The Jimmies received 16 points and finished four points ahead of Northern State.

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"What excites me most about this year's team is the energy and hunger they bring as we enter our first season in the NSIC conference," said UJ head coach Ben Smith. "We've got a fresh group that's eager to prove themselves and set the standard for our program moving forward. They've been buying into the training, supporting one another, and embracing the challenge of competing at a higher level. It's a great mix of new faces and returning athletes who are all motivated to make waves in the conference and show that we belong here. The excitement and commitment they bring every day makes me really optimistic about what we can accomplish together this season."

Kailee Cline and Sadie Hager were named as the Jimmies' 2025-26 Athletes to Watch.
 
"Kailee has already made a huge impact in the pool," Smith said. "She specializes in butterfly, and what stands out most is her work ethic and how quickly she's adjusted to the college level. Even as a first-year, she's shown tremendous maturity in training, pushing herself and her teammates every day. She has the potential to be a difference-maker for us in both individual events and relays, and we're excited to see her grow throughout the season. Her energy and competitiveness raise the standard for everyone around her."

"Sadie is a talented and motivated diver with a strong drive to succeed," continued Smith. "Her positive mindset and determination set her apart, and she consistently proves to be a supportive teammate. With her skill, work ethic and passion for the sport, she's an exciting athlete to watch and will only continue to grow and make an impact in the season ahead."

The NSIC Swimming and Diving season will get underway on Friday, September 26, with the regular season culminating at the NSIC Swimming & Diving Championship on February 11-14, 2026 at the Hulbert Aquatic Center in West Fargo, North Dakota.