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Elkhart Today
By the People, for the People
Seven USM Swimmers Qualify for NAIA National Tournament
Most individual qualifiers in program history for the Spires
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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The University of Saint Mary (USM) is sending a record-breaking seven swimmers to the NAIA Swim & Dive National Championships in Elkhart, Indiana from March 4th to March 7th. This marks the highest number of individual qualifiers in the program's history, signaling a significant step forward for the Spires' swimming and diving team.
Why it matters
The qualification of at least four women on the team unlocks a significant opportunity for USM, as they will be able to compete in all five relays - the 200 Free, 400 Free, 800 Free, 200 Medley, and 400 Medley. Relay races often contribute significantly to a team's overall score at national championships, providing valuable points and generating momentum.
The details
Head coach David Bresser attributes the team's success to the dedication and hard work of his athletes. The seven Spire athletes representing USM are: Ian Lucas, Sania Cay, MaryBeth Clark, Olivia Ringle, Ayla Pierce, Reagan Salsbury, and Taya Swarts. This reflects a broader trend within NAIA swimming, as the CSCAA recently honored 713 Scholar All-America Teams, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence alongside athletic achievement across the nation.
- The NAIA Swim & Dive National Championships will take place from March 4th to March 7th, 2026 in Elkhart, Indiana.
The players
David Bresser
The head coach of the University of Saint Mary (USM) swimming and diving team.
Ian Lucas
A USM swimmer who qualified for the NAIA National Tournament in the 50 Free, 100 Fly, and 100 Free.
Sania Cay
A USM swimmer who qualified for the NAIA National Tournament in the 50 Free, 100 Free, and all relays.
MaryBeth Clark
A USM swimmer who qualified for the NAIA National Tournament in the 100 Butterfly, 200 Butterfly, and all relays.
Olivia Ringle
A USM swimmer who qualified for the NAIA National Tournament in the 500 Free, 200 Free, 1650 Free, and all relays.
Ayla Pierce
A USM swimmer who qualified for the NAIA National Tournament in the 200 IM, 100 Fly, 1650 Free, and all relays.
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)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
