New York: Columbia Women’s Swimming and Diving Program Welcomes Eight New Athletes for 2025-26 Season

Columbia University’s women’s swimming and diving program has announced the addition of eight newcomers for the upcoming 2025-26 season. This new class features seven swimmers and one diver, reflecting a rich diversity in talent and backgrounds from eight different states across the country.

Head coach Diana Caskey expressed enthusiasm for the new recruits, praising their varying event strengths and unique personalities, which promise to enhance the overall performance of the program. The incoming athletes aim to continue the tradition of excellence within Columbia’s competitive swimming and diving landscape.

New Swimmers Overview

• Victoria Mori – Freshman, Freestyle, 5-5, Irvine, California; Four-time California State Champion in relay events, Junior Nationals qualifier, and multiple All-American honors.
• Shaelyn Shields – Freshman, Backstroke/IM, 5-5, Charlotte, North Carolina; Two-time team captain, seven-time medalist at USA Swimming Futures, and qualifier for USA Swimming Nationals.
• Samantha Segerson – Freshman, Distance/IM, 5-6, Bainbridge Island, Washington; Three-time Scholastic All-American and 2023 Washington State Champion.
• Alex Moore – Freshman, Backstroke/IM, 5-6, Greenwich, Connecticut; Connecticut state record holder, NISCA All-American, and National AP Scholar.
• Ella Chan – Freshman, Sprint, 5-9, Tasmania, Australia; Four-time Australian Age National finalist and team captain.
• Reese Heidenreich – Freshman, Sprint Free/Backstroke, 5-7, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Four-time All-State swimmer and high school record holder in 200 free relay.
• Madeleine Rivard – Freshman, Breaststroke, 5-5, Seattle, Washington; All-American in 11th place and multiple Futures qualifier.

New Diver Overview

• Lily Sherman – Freshman, 5-2, Papillion, Nebraska; Four-year varsity diver and Summa Cum Laude graduate with a high ACT score.

Analysis of Incoming Class

The diverse array of talent represented in this new class underscores the commitment of Columbia’s coaching staff to building a competitive program. Each swimmer has remarkable accolades from their respective high schools and club teams, suggesting an upward trajectory in performance and an enriching team dynamic.

From Mori’s multiple state titles in California to Shields’ leadership as a two-time captain, these athletes bring significant competitive experience. Furthermore, athletes like Segerson and Moore exhibit academic achievements alongside their athletic prowess, highlighting the dual commitment to excellence in both sports and academics.

Background of Columbia Women’s Swimming and Diving Program

Columbia University has a storied history in intercollegiate athletics, with the women’s swimming and diving program being a key player in the Ivy League. The program focuses on cultivating talent through rigorous training and support while promoting academic success. With the addition of these eight newcomers, the program aims to enhance its standing and competitiveness during the upcoming season.

As the season approaches, the anticipation surrounding the potential contributions of this team is building. Their collective achievements and experiences indicate a strong future for the Columbia women’s swimming and diving program.