University of Illinois
Iowa State
Illinois Swim and Dive Hosts Iowa State for Senior Day
October 13, 2026 | Swimming & Diving
PREVIEW
| Meet: | vs. Iowa State |
|---|---|
| When: | Friday, Oct. 16 // Saturday, Oct. 17 |
| Time (CT): | 5 p.m. // 11 a.m. |
| Where: | ARC Pool, Champaign, Ill. |
| Social Media: | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube |
CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Illinois swim and dive remains at home for its second dual meet of the season against Iowa State on Friday (Oct 16) and Saturday (Oct. 17). Events are set to begin at 5 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. CT on Saturday at the ARC Pool. It will also be Senior Day on Saturday where nine seniors will be honored: Maggie Adler, Elleka Boeres, Elle Crisostomo, Martina Cibulkova, Michelle Kaner, Marin McAndrew, Bethany Mercer and Kalina Nikolaeva.
Despite falling to Purdue last week, the Illini had multiple strong performances to mention. Against the Boilermakers, Chloe Diner took home gold in three events including 100 Breaststroke (1:02.59), 200 IM (2:02.78), and with the 200 medley relay alongside Sophia Paduano, Kayla Duran, and Isabella Wilhelm (1:42.28). Freshman Kate Farrell won her first races as an Illini in the 200 freestyle (1:50.83) and later topped the podium in the 500 freestyle (4:57.22). Nikolaeva also achieved a gold for the Illini in the 200 backstroke (2:03.07).
Scouting the Opponent
Iowa State is currently 0-1 to start the season after most recently competing against Florida State in Tallahassee, Fla. The Cyclones earned 284 points across the two-day meet. Swimmer Grace Swoboda broke her own record setting a new school and meet record in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 59.65 seconds. Freshman Asia Salvato won her first collegiate event in the 200 butterfly (2:03.04).
The Fighting Illini have only lost twice to the Cyclones holding an 11-2 record since their first meeting on Jan. 19, 1980. Last year they recorded a 121-65 victory on day one, followed by a 123-82 victory on day two in Ames, Iowa.
