INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – A huge statement was made by Azusa Pacific on the opening day of the 2025 NCAA Division II Swimming and Diving Championships, as the Cougars etched their name into the history books with a record-breaking performance in the 800-yard freestyle relay.

Entering the prestigious national meet as the No. 14 seed, the relay team of Sydnee Wilson, Mikaela Maemura, Aleena Herrera, and Montana White shattered expectations, clocking a time of 7:21.83 to secure an eighth-place finish. Not only did the quartet reach the podium, but they also set a new program record in the event and delivered APU's first-ever All-American relay performance.

The Cougars' historic swim places them among the elite in NCAA Division II, marking a milestone achievement for a program that continues to rise on the national stage. Wilson, Maemura, Herrera, and White now join an exclusive group of APU All-Americans, cementing their legacy in it's swimming history.

With momentum on their side, it looks to build on this breakthrough performance as the NCAA Championships continue throughout the week. More opportunities await for the Cougars to add to their growing list of accolades on collegiate swimming's biggest stage.