NCAA DIII 2026 Day 2 Finals Recap: Top Moments & Highlights

Denison, NYU, and Chicago swimmers shine in record-breaking performances

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:58am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a swimming competition, with overlapping planes of color and movement, capturing the energy and intensity of the NCAA Division III championships.The NCAA Division III Swimming and Diving Championships showcase the depth of talent and competitive spirit across smaller schools, with record-breaking performances and dramatic finishes.Indianapolis Today

The NCAA Division III Swimming and Diving Championships in Indianapolis have reached an exciting crescendo on Day 2, with a series of thrilling races and record-breaking performances. From Denison's Jack Hill's record-breaking 200 freestyle victory to NYU's Kaley McIntyre's fourth consecutive national title in the women's 200 freestyle, the night was filled with standout individual performances and dramatic finishes.

Why it matters

These races not only showcase the athletes' physical abilities but also their mental fortitude, race strategy, and ability to perform under pressure. The Division III championships provide an opportunity to highlight the depth of talent and competitive spirit across the NCAA's smaller schools, offering a glimpse into the future stars of the sport.

The details

The night kicked off with Denison's Jack Hill storming to victory in the men's 200 freestyle, setting a new NCAA Division III record with a time of 1:33.94. In the women's 200 freestyle, NYU's Kaley McIntyre continued her reign, securing her fourth consecutive national title. The men's 100 butterfly witnessed a record-breaking performance by Chicago's Cooper Costello, who broke his own NCAA DIII record with a time of 45.85. The women's 100 butterfly provided a nail-biting finish, with Claremont Mudd-Scripps' Madeleine Kan edging out Haley Zelen of Saint Benedict by just 0.31 seconds. The men's 400 IM saw a thrilling battle between NYU teammates Maksym Nechydyuk and Conner Dean, with Nechydyuk's victory showcasing his exceptional freestyle speed. The women's 400 IM provided one of the night's most dramatic finishes, with Kenyon's Ashlyn Widmer overtaking Denison's Emily Harris in the final 50 meters to win by a mere 0.01 seconds.

  • The NCAA Division III Swimming and Diving Championships in Indianapolis took place on April 11, 2026.
  • The events described in the story occurred on Day 2 of the championships.

The players

Jack Hill

A swimmer for Denison University who won the men's 200 freestyle event, setting a new NCAA Division III record with a time of 1:33.94.

Kaley McIntyre

A swimmer for NYU who won the women's 200 freestyle event, securing her fourth consecutive national title.

Cooper Costello

A swimmer for the University of Chicago who broke his own NCAA DIII record in the men's 100 butterfly with a time of 45.85.

Madeleine Kan

A swimmer for Claremont Mudd-Scripps who won the women's 100 butterfly event, edging out Haley Zelen of Saint Benedict by 0.31 seconds.

Maksym Nechydyuk

A swimmer for NYU who won the men's 400 IM event, showcasing his exceptional freestyle speed.

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What they’re saying

“Jack Hill's record-breaking performance in the 200 freestyle was a true testament to his exceptional talent and strategic execution.”

— John Butler, Analyst

“Kaley McIntyre's fourth consecutive national title in the 200 freestyle is a remarkable achievement that highlights her championship mindset and unwavering dedication.”

— Madeleine Kan, Competitor

What’s next

The final day of the NCAA Division III Swimming and Diving Championships will feature the remaining diving and relay events, where new champions will be crowned. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the conclusion of this thrilling competition.

The takeaway

The NCAA Division III Championships have showcased the depth of talent and competitive spirit across the smaller schools in the NCAA. These races not only highlight the athletes' physical abilities but also their strategic thinking, mental fortitude, and ability to perform under pressure, offering a glimpse into the future stars of the sport.