In a commanding display of depth, grit and teamwork, the University of Georgia women’s swimming and diving team overwhelmed No. 2 Emory on Senior Day in Athens, winning all 17 events and capping the regular season with a performance that has the Bulldogs heading into the SEC Championships with momentum and confidence. The 190 to 106 victory on Saturday showcased emerging young stars and celebrated the accomplishments of departing seniors in a meet fans will remember for years.
From the very first race, the Bulldogs asserted control at Bauerle Pool at Gabrielsen Natatorium. Georgia outpaced its Division III rival in every event on the women’s side, blending seasoned veterans’ leadership with breakthrough performances from its underclassmen. The win also mirrored the energy on campus as athletes, families and supporters honored senior contributors before the races began.
Freshmen Sparkling With Breakout Performances
One of the biggest storylines of the afternoon was the emergence of Georgia’s freshman swimmers. Freshman Kennedi Dobson continued her exceptional first season by sweeping the backstroke events and posting NCAA qualifying times in both the 100-yard and 200-yard backstrokes. Her 100 backstroke time of 52.57 and 200 backstroke finish at 1:54.08 underscored her rising star status within the SEC and national swimming circles.
Fellow freshman Izzy Beu dominated the butterfly events, clocking 53.27 in the 100-yard fly and 1:57.39 in the 200-yard fly. Her performance was the only sub-two-minute swim in the field for the 200 fly.
Georgia also celebrated multiple first collegiate victories from its young roster:
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Kylie McMurray claimed the 1,000-yard freestyle with a strong 10:01.27 finish.
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Maeve Eckerman earned her first win in the 200-yard freestyle at 1:48.31.
These breakthrough victories signal a promising future for the Bulldogs’ future core.
Senior Leadership Sets Tone, Creates Emotional High
On this special Senior Day, several veteran swimmers left an indelible mark before departing. Senior Emma Norton led the charge in the 100-yard freestyle with a standout 49.59 finish, one of the fastest times of the meet across all women’s events. Senior Ieva Maluka delivered a personal best in the 500-yard freestyle at 4:44.00, comfortably outpacing the competition and exemplifying her growth during her UGA career.
Their performances not only provided key points toward the team victory but also set an emotional tone. As applause echoed through the natatorium, Georgia’s young swimmers fed off the seniors’ energy, embracing their role in continuing the program’s proud tradition.
Georgia Dominates the Pool and Diving Well
Georgia’s depth was evident beyond individual swimming races. In diving, junior Michelle Cummo delivered a standout performance by sweeping both the 1-meter and 3-meter events, qualifying for the NCAA Zone Diving Championships with scores of 272.78 and 285.83, respectively.
This sweep across disciplines highlighted the team’s comprehensive strength this season. Georgia’s ability to score decisively in both swimming and diving creates a balanced lineup that poses major challenges for opponents at the upcoming SEC Championships.
What This Means for Georgia’s SEC Championship Run
Georgia’s performance on Senior Day provides both momentum and critical validation before the Southeastern Conference Swimming and Diving Championships next month in Knoxville, Tennessee. The Bulldogs have a short break before heading to the SEC meet, where they will face the toughest competition of the season from February 16 through February 21.
Coach leadership and strategic depth put Georgia in a strong position going forward. Senior contributions built a foundation of excellence, while underclassmen progress ensures the Bulldogs remain competitive in multiple events this season.
Georgia’s Shot at Postseason Success
Experts and fans now expect the Bulldogs to build on their Senior Day success through conference competition. With several NCAA cut times already posted and more likely ahead, Georgia’s women are poised for a strong championship showing. If the team carries its balance of veteran poise and youthful firepower into the SEC meet, expectations are for high-placing finishes and potential NCAA Championship qualifiers.
The emotional resonance of honoring seniors while highlighting the breakout potential of newcomers makes this meet stand out. From the opening splash to the final buzzer, Georgia’s performance was a clear indicator that this team is peaking at just the right moment as they pursue conference glory.
Georgia fans and swimming enthusiasts alike will now watch closely as the Bulldogs transition from Senior Day celebration to serious championship competition. This mix of celebration and high performance marks a defining moment in the team’s 2025-26 campaign.
