US National Junior James Darcy Commits to Notre Dame Swimming

The rising star will join the Fighting Irish in 2026, signaling a new era for the program.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:45am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the fragmented motion and energy of a swimmer in competition, using sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant blues, greens, and whites.A new era of Fighting Irish swimming begins with the arrival of rising star James Darcy.Malverne Today

James Darcy, a talented swimmer from Malverne, New York, has committed to join the University of Notre Dame's men's swimming team in the fall of 2026. Darcy, a standout in events like the 1650 free and 1000 free, is poised to make an immediate impact on the Fighting Irish program as they look to rebuild following a recent suspension.

Why it matters

Darcy's commitment is a significant milestone not just for him, but for the Notre Dame swimming program as a whole. His arrival, along with other talented recruits, signals a fresh start and a chance for the team to redefine its success on the ACC and national stages.

The details

Darcy, a US National Junior team member, has been steadily improving his times in recent years, with an impressive drop in his 1000 free time that has him closing in on NCAA Championship qualification. His best times in the 1650 free and 1000 free would have placed him in the top 10 at the ACC Championships, an event where Notre Dame had no scorers this past season.

  • Darcy will join the Notre Dame swimming team in the fall of 2026.
  • The Notre Dame men's swimming program is returning after a suspension during the 2024-2025 season.

The players

James Darcy

A talented swimmer from Malverne, New York, who has committed to join the University of Notre Dame's men's swimming team in 2026.

University of Notre Dame

The Fighting Irish men's swimming program, which is looking to rebuild and redefine its success following a recent suspension.

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What they’re saying

“This commitment is more than just a choice of a swimming program; it's the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.”

— James Darcy

The takeaway

Darcy's commitment to Notre Dame is a testament to the dedication and hard work that goes into competitive swimming at the highest levels. His arrival, along with other talented recruits, signals a fresh start for the Fighting Irish program and the potential for great things to come.