Stanford Cardinal Women's Swimming and Diving Team Heads to NCAA Championships in Atlanta

The Cardinal look to extend their legacy of excellence under first-year head coach Chris Lindauer.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:10am

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The Stanford Cardinal women's swimming and diving team is heading to the NCAA Championships in Atlanta, carrying a legacy of excellence and a renewed sense of ambition under first-year head coach Chris Lindauer. With 13 national championships already in the program's history, Stanford aims to extend its unparalleled run of success.

Why it matters

Stanford's women's swimming and diving program has been a dominant force in collegiate sports, finishing in the top 10 at every national championship meet since the 1974-1975 season. This sustained success is a testament to the program's commitment to recruiting top talent and fostering a winning culture. As the team transitions to the ACC under new head coach Chris Lindauer, there is a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation for the Cardinal's performance at the upcoming NCAA Championships.

The details

The team boasts a roster filled with seasoned competitors, including five NCAA individual gold medalists from last season. Key returners like Lucy Bell, Caroline Bricker, and Torri Huske will be pivotal in Atlanta. The Cardinal have also enjoyed recent successes, with victories over California, San Jose State, UCLA, and USC, as well as record-setting performances at the Texas Swimming Invitational. The arrival of seven talented freshmen further bolsters the program's depth and championship aspirations.

  • The NCAA Women's Swimming & Diving Championships will be held at McAuley Aquatic Center in Atlanta.
  • Morning sessions begin at 7 a.m. PT, and finals sessions start at 3 p.m. PT.

The players

Chris Lindauer

The first-year head coach of the Stanford Cardinal women's swimming and diving team, bringing a wealth of experience, including coaching Olympic medalists and serving on the USA National Team coaching staff.

Lucy Bell

A key returner for the Stanford Cardinal, Lucy Bell is an NCAA individual gold medalist from last season and has consistently delivered standout performances, setting program records and achieving personal bests throughout the season.

Caroline Bricker

An experienced swimmer for the Stanford Cardinal, Caroline Bricker is an NCAA individual gold medalist from last season and will be a pivotal contributor to the team's success in Atlanta.

Torri Huske

Torri Huske is an NCAA individual gold medalist from last season and a key returner for the Stanford Cardinal, bringing valuable experience and talent to the team's roster.

Kayla Wilson

A veteran swimmer for the Stanford Cardinal, Kayla Wilson will provide valuable experience and leadership to the team as they compete at the NCAA Championships.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

All meet coverage will be broadcast live on ESPN+.

The takeaway

Stanford's women's swimming and diving program has a long history of excellence, and the team's transition to the ACC under new head coach Chris Lindauer has not diminished their championship aspirations. With a roster filled with experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the Cardinal are poised to continue their dominance at the NCAA Championships in Atlanta.