Bell Earns All-American Honors; Golden Tigers Show Well on Opening Day of Championships

Elkhart, Indiana- Sophomore Sophie Bell captured All-American honors in the 50 freestyle at the 2026 NAIA Swimming and Diving Championships on Thursday.

Bell raced to a time of 23.55 to earn fifth place and secure All-American honors. Bell's time set a new Brenau record, eclipsing former BU All-American Michelle Billeaud's time of 23.78, set in 2015. 

Teammate Olga Bukowska also had a solid showing with a 22nd place finish in the 500 freestyle. The junior raced to a time of 5:19 at the championships. 

Both Golden Tigers swim again tomorrow as Bukowska takes on the 400 IM and Bell races in the 100 backstroke.