The Alabama Crimson Tide swimming and diving teams hosted Georgia Tech in Tuscaloosa on Saturday, January 11, 2026, and delivered a commanding performance. The women triumphed 233-66, while the men won 205-93, showcasing strong swims and dives that set multiple facility records in their season opener.
Dominant Performances in Women’s Events
Alabama’s women started strong in the 400 medley relay. The team of Emily Jones, Jada Scott, Gaby Van Brunt, and Cadence Vincent clocked 3:29.67 to take the win. Jones shone bright, winning the 100 backstroke in 51.37 and the 200 back in 1:53.55.
Van Brunt claimed victories in the 200 butterfly at 1:56.36 and the 100 fly in 52.14. Vincent swept the sprints, taking the 50 freestyle in 21.91 and the 100 free in 47.93. Mackenzie Brandt dominated distance events with wins in the 1000 free at 9:41.85 and the 500 free in 4:43.21.
Emma Sundermeyer won the 200 free in 1:47.17. Charlotte Rosendale led the 100 breaststroke under one minute at 59.92, and Sydney Blackhurst took the 200 breast in 2:14.10. In diving, Rin Drudge topped both 1-meter at 275.18 and 3-meter at 291.45. Sydney Sanders won the 400 IM in 4:15.36.
The meet ended with Alabama’s 200 free relay team of Rosendale, Jones, Tessa Giele, and Vincent winning in 1:27.53. Vincent anchored with a split of 21.49.
Men’s Side Shows Alabama Strength
On the men’s side, Alabama swimmers pushed hard from the start. They set facility records in several events, highlighting their depth against Georgia Tech.
One standout was the men’s team breaking records in key relays and individual races. Georgia Tech’s Carles Coll Marti put up a fight in the 200 IM, but Alabama swimmers like Derek Maas and others from past seasons inspired the current squad’s efforts.
Alabama’s men won most events, contributing to the 205-93 final score. Divers also performed well, adding crucial points.
Key Records and Highlights
The dual meet featured impressive records that boosted Alabama’s momentum for the 2026 season. Fans saw four facility records fall at the Alabama Aquatics Center.
Here are some notable achievements:
- Women’s 400 medley relay: 3:29.67, a strong start for Alabama.
- Cadence Vincent’s sprint double: 21.91 in 50 free and 47.93 in 100 free.
- Rin Drudge’s diving sweep: 275.18 on 1-meter and 291.45 on 3-meter.
- Men’s overall dominance: Helped by strategic swims in freestyle and backstroke events.
Georgia Tech had bright spots too. Swimmer Rothwell smashed a school record during the meet, showing individual talent despite the team loss.
Broader Context in College Swimming
This win comes as college swimming ramps up in early 2026. Alabama, ranked 13th for women and 16th for men, used this meet to build toward bigger challenges like their upcoming clash with Duke.
Georgia Tech, resuming their campaign, faced a tough opener. The Yellow Jackets aim to rebound in future meets. This dual echoes past rivalries, like Alabama’s 2017 road win over Georgia Tech.
Recent events in the sport include other teams setting records. For example, MIT’s men’s team kicked off 2026 with a big victory, and Nebraska won a multi-team invite late last year. These results show the competitive landscape heating up.
Alabama’s performance ties into their strong history. The program has produced NCAA champions and SEC title winners in recent years, adding to their legacy.
What This Means for the Season
Alabama’s sweep provides a confidence boost. Coach Ashley Johnston, in her fourth year with the gymnastics team, wait, no, that’s a mix-up; for swimming, the focus is on building toward conference and national meets.
The Crimson Tide’s depth in relays and individual events positions them well. Georgia Tech, while defeated, gained valuable experience for their young roster.
Looking ahead, both teams have packed schedules. Alabama faces ranked opponents soon, testing their early form.
| Event | Winner | Time/Score | Team |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women’s 400 Medley Relay | Jones, Scott, Van Brunt, Vincent | 3:29.67 | Alabama |
| Women’s 100 Backstroke | Emily Jones | 51.37 | Alabama |
| Women’s 200 Butterfly | Gaby Van Brunt | 1:56.36 | Alabama |
| Women’s 50 Freestyle | Cadence Vincent | 21.91 | Alabama |
| Women’s 1000 Freestyle | Mackenzie Brandt | 9:41.85 | Alabama |
| Men’s Final Score | N/A | 205-93 | Alabama |
| Women’s 1-Meter Diving | Rin Drudge | 275.18 | Alabama |
This table captures some top results, illustrating Alabama’s control.
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