The Jamestown Community College men’s and women’s swimming & diving teams will be competing in the 2026 NJCAA championships, which start Wednesday and run through Saturday at Indian River (Florida) State College. Photo courtesy of JCC Athletics

FORT PIERCE, Fla. — The Jamestown Community College swimming and diving teams have made the journey from Chautauqua County to Indian River State College for the 2026 NJCAA championships, which start Wednesday and run through Saturday.

For the Jayhawks, this year’s group wants to be extra special, with the women eyeing their third straight national crown while the men have their sights set on their first-ever championship.

“Our goals are definitely to come back with a national championship,” said sophomore Zach Johnson. “We know we can do it. We have worked really hard. Now we need to get the job done in the pool.”

“I am hoping that the men’s and women’s teams can both win a national championship,” said sophomore Desiree Putt.

To be the ones hoisting the national title plaques, the Jayhawks will rely on the hard work they’ve put in since practice started last September, including both teams completing perfect league seasons.

“I think we have put in the hard work, and now we need to bring that out,” said freshman Roxanne Lothian.

“We need the right cool-downs and warm-ups and to take care of your bodies,” said Daniel Peterson. “We’ve already put in a lot of work, and now it is time for that to shine through.”

While winning the team titles is priority number one, the Jayhawks know that it comes from each student-athlete doing their best as individuals when in the water.

“I hope to beat my records, the ones that I’ve set and, hopefully, a few new ones,” Lothian said.

“I would like to be able to break some records as an individual. I’d love for us to get some relay records as well,” said Putt.

The Jayhawks should have high expectations. The women’s team is coming off of the Region 3 championship, with the men finishing as runner-up. Taking that next step is the ultimate prize, but this group is also soaking up the experience ahead.

“I thought about this while I was on the plane. I am forever grateful for what is at hand. It is an unbelievable experience, and I am super grateful for JCC giving us this chance,” said Johnson, who hails from South Africa.

“This means a lot. The college is amazing for doing this for us. It is a great opportunity, and I will do my best,” said Peterson, a Falconer native.

The Jayhawks can capitalize on this opportunity starting Wednesday when the national championships begin and run through Saturday.