The New Year brings exciting changes to the NCAA as midseason reinforcements gear up to join the ranks in January 2026. Prepare for a shake-up in rankings as these talented athletes step onto the pool deck. Here's a sneak peek at the biggest names set to make their mark this spring.
Alabama
Tessa Giele, a silver medalist at the 2024 SCM World Championships, is set to join the Crimson Tide. Her impressive 100 fly time would have placed her third at the 2025 NCAA Championships, showcasing her potential to excel in the pool.
Auburn
Maksim Trotsenko, a Russian talent, is heading to Auburn with a 100 breast stroke time that's just off scoring at the 2025 NCAAs. He's already made the SEC 'A' final, indicating his readiness to make an impact.
Florida
Koen de Groot, a sprint breaststroke specialist, brings his talents to Florida. His best converted times would have secured a spot in the 'A' final at the 2025 NCAAs, and he's expected to make a splash at the SECs.
Georgia
Kris Mihaylov, a freestyle swimmer from South Africa, will join the Bulldogs. His arrival adds depth to Georgia's freestyle group and positions him to make an impact in relays.
Indiana
Alex Shackell, who didn't swim for the Hoosiers in the fall, has already demonstrated her potential with an NCAA 'A' final finish in events like the 100 and 200 fly. Her talent is set to shine in the upcoming season.
Kentucky
Tomer Shuster, an international backstroke specialist from Israel, will join the Wildcats. His 100 back time would have placed him fourth this season, indicating his potential for success.
Louisville
Anastasia Gorbenko, a versatile swimmer with a World Championship under her belt, is set to join the Cardinals. Her ability to adapt to SCY and her impressive swimming skills make her a strong contender for scoring big.
Tennessee
Mizuki Hirai, the World Junior Record holder in the LCM 100 fly, brings her talent to Tennessee. Her 100 butterfly potential and medley relay skills make her a valuable addition.
Lucio Flavio
The Brazilian sprint fly specialist, Lucio Flavio, joins Tennessee with a 100 fly time that would lead the team this season. His talent is sure to make a splash.
Texas
Three new swimmers are set to join the Longhorn men's team this spring. Ksawery Masiuk, a World Championship medalist, will add depth to the backstroke group. Evan Bailey, an Irish sprint/mid-distance free swimmer, brings relay potential. Alexey Glivinskiy, an Israeli Olympian, completes the trio, adding depth to the sprint/mid-distance free group.
Virginia
Nina Jazy, who originally signed with Michigan, joins the Cavaliers this spring. Her sprint free skills, complemented by swimmers like Anna Moesch and Sara Curtis, will boost the team's performance.