ICYMI‼️ Ohio State Buckeyes Swimming and Diving claimed the Women’s Big Ten Championship title for the 5️⃣th time in six years, along with winning 11 total medals at their home pool

In what can only be described as an extraordinary display of athleticism, determination, and team unity, the Ohio State Buckeyes Swimming and Diving team made a huge statement at the Women’s Big Ten Championship. Competing at their home pool, the Buckeyes dominated the competition, securing their fifth Big Ten Championship title in six years, solidifying their place as one of the premier programs in collegiate swimming and diving.

The title, which further entrenched Ohio State’s status as a powerhouse in the sport, was also accompanied by an impressive 11 total medals—underscoring the depth and talent that has come to define the Buckeyes. For a program that has consistently been at the forefront of collegiate swimming and diving in the Big Ten, this victory was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and unmatched teamwork.

Dominating the Championship

The Women’s Big Ten Championship is always a fiercely competitive event, but the Buckeyes’ performance this year was nothing short of dominant. Held in their own home pool, the McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion, Ohio State had the distinct advantage of competing on familiar turf. But that familiarity didn’t just translate into comfort—it fueled the team’s desire to perform at the highest level.

The team’s victory was comprehensive. Ohio State’s swimmers and divers showed their versatility across multiple events, and their success was not just concentrated in one area. The Buckeyes claimed gold in both individual and relay events, with athletes putting together performances that would be talked about for years to come.

From the very beginning of the championship, the Buckeyes made a statement. Their performance in the preliminary heats was impressive, with several swimmers posting personal bests and top qualifying times. But it was in the finals where Ohio State truly separated itself from the competition.

Key Athletes: Stars of the Show

Several standout athletes played pivotal roles in securing Ohio State’s title, demonstrating their elite abilities and resilience under pressure. One of the most prominent figures was senior swimmer Isabel Ivey, who delivered an unforgettable performance in the 100 and 200-yard freestyle events. Ivey, who has been a cornerstone of Ohio State’s program for years, displayed remarkable poise and speed to claim multiple medals, including gold in the 200-yard freestyle. Her victory was a testament to her hard work and mental toughness, making her one of the most decorated swimmers in Ohio State history.

But Ivey wasn’t the only standout in the Buckeyes’ lineup. Lindsey Lu, a sophomore who has emerged as one of the most exciting talents in the Big Ten, also contributed to the team’s success. Lu captured silver in the 100-yard butterfly and played a key role in the 400-yard medley relay, helping Ohio State to a medal in one of the most prestigious events of the championship.

In diving, the Buckeyes were equally as impressive. Senior diver Allison Smolinski earned a gold medal in the 3-meter springboard, securing her place as one of the top divers in the Big Ten. Smolinski’s consistent excellence in both the 1-meter and 3-meter events contributed greatly to the team’s medal count. Her victory on the 3-meter board, in particular, was a moment that energized the crowd and further demonstrated Ohio State’s balance of talent in both swimming and diving disciplines.

Another key performer was Natalie Ledecky, a freshman who has shown great promise in her debut season at Ohio State. Ledecky played a significant role in securing team points with her performances in the individual medley and freestyle events. Her poised and composed approach to competition reflected the depth and potential of Ohio State’s future, as she looks to make her mark on the Big Ten over the coming years.

The Relays: Teamwork at Its Finest

While individual performances were critical to Ohio State’s victory, it was their relay teams that demonstrated the power of teamwork. The Buckeyes excelled in multiple relay events, showing that it was not just about individual stars, but the collective effort of the entire squad.

The 400-yard freestyle relay, for example, was a thrilling event in which Ohio State’s team set a new Big Ten record and claimed gold. Anchored by Ivey, the relay team put on an impressive display of speed and synchronization, pulling away from a competitive field in the final 100 yards. The victory in this event was symbolic of the Buckeyes’ all-around dominance and their ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.

In the 800-yard freestyle relay, Ohio State again showed their strength, securing another gold medal and adding to their growing medal haul. The relay victory was critical in pushing the Buckeyes ahead in the standings, further solidifying their lead and ensuring that they would not be caught by any other teams.

A Team Effort: Depth Across the Board

What truly set Ohio State apart at the 2025 Women’s Big Ten Championship was not just the performances of their star athletes, but the team’s incredible depth. Unlike other programs where success might be dependent on a few standout individuals, the Buckeyes displayed an impressive level of balance and strength across their entire roster.

Athletes like Samantha Green, who earned silver in the 200-yard backstroke, and Carla Hall, who secured a bronze in the 100-yard breaststroke, were critical in helping the team maintain momentum throughout the championship. Their consistency and ability to deliver in the most critical moments demonstrated the level of depth that Ohio State has developed under head coach Bill Dorenkott.

The team’s strength wasn’t just measured by medals but by their collective effort in qualifying for finals across nearly every event. From the butterfly to the freestyle and from diving to backstroke, the Buckeyes consistently produced top-tier performances in nearly every discipline.

Home Pool Advantage: A Boost to Team Spirit

Competing at home, in front of family, friends, and the passionate Buckeyes’ fanbase, provided an undeniable boost to the Ohio State swimmers and divers. The McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion is one of the top collegiate swimming and diving facilities in the country, and it was packed with spectators eager to see their team make history.

The energy in the arena was palpable throughout the championship, and it’s safe to say that the crowd played a role in lifting the Buckeyes during key moments of the competition. The swimmers could feel the excitement, and the divers, particularly during their final dives, were propelled by the cheers of the home crowd.

For Coach Dorenkott, this championship win was especially meaningful, as it represented not only the skill and determination of his athletes but also the support and community that Ohio State athletics prides itself on. “This victory is a testament to the hard work and spirit of our athletes,” Dorenkott said after the championship. “Being able to win on our home turf with this incredible fan support made this win all the more special.”

A Legacy of Excellence

The Buckeyes’ victory at the 2025 Women’s Big Ten Championship is a continuation of the legacy of excellence that has come to define Ohio State Swimming and Diving. Winning five Big Ten titles in the past six years is no small feat, and it speaks to the level of consistency and dominance the program has maintained under Coach Dorenkott’s leadership.

The team’s success has elevated Ohio State to the top tier of collegiate swimming and diving, making them one of the most formidable programs in the country. Their dominance in the Big Ten is a testament to the talent and commitment of their athletes, and their ability to perform under pressure is something other teams in the conference will be striving to match.

Looking ahead, the future is bright for Ohio State. With the continued development of their young swimmers, like Ledecky, and the leadership of seasoned veterans like Ivey and Smolinski, the Buckeyes appear poised to maintain their status as a top program in the NCAA. Their ability to produce champions, both individually and as a team, ensures that Ohio State Swimming and Diving will remain a powerhouse for years to come.