JMU Predicted to Finish Sixth in American

IRVING, Texas – James Madison swimming & diving was predicted to finish sixth in the American Conference in a vote by the league's nine coaches, the conference announced on Thursday.

Rice was picked to repeat as conference champions, receiving seven first place votes and 64 points. Liberty and Tulane follow, tallying 57 and 43 points respectively. FIU (42) and East Carolina (36) round out the top five, with the Dukes logging 32 points to check in at sixth.

The Dukes will enter their second season as members of the American Conference since joining the league prior to the 2025-26 season.

JMU will begin its season Oct. 16, competing in a tri-meet hosted by Liberty with Rutgers. The American Conference Swimming and Diving Championships will take place on Feb. 17-20 at the Liberty Natatorium in Lynchburg, Va.

2026 American Conference Women's Swimming and Diving Preseason Coaches Poll