IRVING, Texas (JMU Athletics) – James Madison swim & dive was predicted to finish fifth in the American Conference in a vote by the league’s nine coaches, as announced by the league on Wednesday afternoon.

Rice was picked to defend its 2025 title, receiving five first-place votes for 59 points. Liberty and FIU followed Rice with two first-place votes each, respectively tallying 57 and 54 points. JMU earned 34 points, just one behind fourth-place Tulane (35). East Carolina (28), Marshall (28), FAU (15) and North Texas (14) rounded out the poll.

The Dukes will be entering their first season of competition in the American during the 2025-26 season. They are coming off back-to-back Sun Belt Conference titles, having won seven conference titles in eight seasons across three separate leagues.

JMU will open the season with a tri-meet hosted by La Salle that will also include Drexel on Saturday, Oct. 18. The American Swimming & Diving Championships will take place in Greensboro, N.C. at the Greensboro Aquatics Center on Feb. 18-21.

2025-26 American Conference Women’s Swimming & Diving Preseason Coaches Poll
1. Rice (5) – 59
2. Liberty (2) – 57
3. FIU (2) – 54
4. Tulane – 35
5. James Madison – 34
6. East Carolina – 28
7. Marshall – 28
8. Florida Atlantic – 15
9. North Texas – 14

— JMU Athletics —