Ball State University Athletics
Kelly Turns in Strong Performances at 2026 NCAA DI Women's Swimming & Diving Championship
March 20, 2026 | Women's Swimming and Diving
ATLANTA, Ga. – Senior Payton Kelly concluded competition Friday at the 2026 NCAA DI Women's Swimming & Diving Championship, turning in strong performances in two events Friday morning.
The Mid-American Conference 2026 Most Outstanding Swimmer opened the day inside of Georgia Tech's McAuley Aquatic Center in the 100 backstroke prelim, touching the wall at 52.56 to place 41st. She then made an appearance in the 50 freestyle, finishing 33rd with a time of 22.18.
With the Ball State swimming & diving program's 2025-26 campaign officially at a close, both the men's and women's teams are focused on preparations for next season's competitions.
FRIDAY MORNING PRELIM RESULTS
100 Backtroke | Program Record – 52.07 by Payton Kelly in 2026
41st – Payton Kelly – 52.56
50 Freestyle | Program Record – 21.18 by Payton Kelly in 2026
33rd – Payton Kelly – 22.81
The Mid-American Conference 2026 Most Outstanding Swimmer opened the day inside of Georgia Tech's McAuley Aquatic Center in the 100 backstroke prelim, touching the wall at 52.56 to place 41st. She then made an appearance in the 50 freestyle, finishing 33rd with a time of 22.18.
With the Ball State swimming & diving program's 2025-26 campaign officially at a close, both the men's and women's teams are focused on preparations for next season's competitions.
FRIDAY MORNING PRELIM RESULTS
100 Backtroke | Program Record – 52.07 by Payton Kelly in 2026
41st – Payton Kelly – 52.56
50 Freestyle | Program Record – 21.18 by Payton Kelly in 2026
33rd – Payton Kelly – 22.81
Players Mentioned
Sports Link: National Girls and Women in Sports Day
Wednesday, February 25
Celebrating National Girls and Women in Sports Day // Produced by Ball State Sports Link
Wednesday, February 04
Sports Link: Zach Shaddy (Diving)
Tuesday, January 13
Sports Link: Hungry To Win (Malcolm Slater)
Thursday, January 08




