Reivers Rise Together Into Season Two
The Iowa Western Reiver Swim Program is ready to make waves once again as it dives into its second season. After an impressive debut year that saw the men's team finish 4th and the women's team finish 6th at the NJCAA National Championships, the Reivers are building on that momentum and aiming even higher in 2025–2026.
What started as a first-year program full of potential has quickly become one of the most exciting and fastest-growing teams in the NJCAA Swimming world. This year's roster has more than doubled in size, bringing together swimmers from across the nation and around the world — each with unique stories, strengths, and experiences that contribute to the team's success.
"What makes us special is that we come from all different backgrounds and levels in swimming and become one team," said Head Coach Mykenzie Liston. "Our motto this year is We Rise Together, and this group has truly embraced that."
Returning Leaders
The Reivers return a strong core of athletes who helped set the standard during the inaugural season. On the men's side, Nolan Hunt returns as the program's record holder in both the 1,650 freestyle and 100 backstroke, while Kyle St. Cyr — a key member of several freestyle relays — holds the 200 butterfly record. Both will look to build on their impressive national performances and lead a growing group of underclassmen in the pool.
On the women's side, Emily Walters returns as one of the top swimmers on the team. Walters holds an incredible six individual program records — in the 50 freestyle, 100 freestyle, 100 IM, 200 IM, 100 backstroke, and 100 butterfly — and was a vital part of the women's relay success last season. Her leadership and work ethic continue to set the tone for the team.
Leading the Reivers this season as captains are sophomores Kyle St. Cyr and Emily Walters, alongside freshmen Jimmy Koch and Brooke Given — a mix of experience and fresh energy that reflects the balance of this year's roster.
Season Outlook
The Reivers kicked off the season with an impressive showing at their intrasquad meet, giving a glimpse of the depth and competitiveness within the program. With a schedule full of challenging meets ahead, the team is eager to see how it stacks up against top regional and national opponents.
The home opener weekend begins Friday evening at 5:00 PM at the University of Nebraska Omaha's H&K Wellness Building, where the Reivers will face UNO and College of Saint Mary. The excitement continues Saturday at noon at Lewis Central's Titan Hill Pool, hosting Sterling College and Morningside University.