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Teh annual showdown between the Army and Navy swimming and diving teams,a cornerstone of the Star Series presented by USAA,is scheduled for Saturday at Lejeune Hall in Annapolis,Maryland. The highly anticipated meet will begin at noon, promising a thrilling display of athleticism and rivalry.
History of the Rivalry
Steeped in history and pride. In the womenS series, Navy currently holds a commanding lead with a 39-5 overall record, bolstered by a 20-1 advantage in meets held in Annapolis. Though, Army disrupted navy’s 35-year winning streak with a victory last year at West Point. The men’s series is closer, with navy leading 56-31, including a 30-13 record on “The Yard.” The last four meetings have been split, with the home team prevailing in each dual. Army ended Navy’s impressive 31-straight win streak in 2022.
Recent Performance and Key Athletes
The 2024-25 season has seen both teams demonstrate strong performances. Army secured a 169-131 victory over Navy in the women’s meet last year, with 12 event wins. Navy’s victories came from Lauren Walsh in both breaststroke events and Mackenzie Kim on both diving boards. Both Walsh and Kim are returning for Navy this year, alongside Molly Webber, Angie McKane, Sydney Braeger, Layne Peterson, and Catriona Gilmore.
Army’s men’s team dominated last year’s meet, winning 15 of 16 events to achieve a 192.5-107.5 win.Navy’s sole victory came from diver Blakeman Shawa, a member of the Class of 2025, on the three-meter board. Returning for Army are Brice Barrieault, Johnny Crush, Kohen Rankin, Ben Vorthmann, Kalvin Hahn, Daniel Verdolaga, and Joey Kling, all event winners from the previous season.
Current Season Standings and Patriot League Dominance
Heading into Saturday’s meet, the Navy women’s team boasts a 5-2 record, having most recently defeated American, Bucknell, and Lafayette on November 8th at Lejeune Hall. Lauren Walsh currently holds the top time in the Patriot League in the 200 breaststroke, while Mackenzie Kim leads the league in the three-meter dive.
The Navy men’s team is undefeated at 7-0 this season, also having swept American, Bucknell, and Lafayette in thier last dual meet. The Mids have recorded the fastest time or highest score in nine events scheduled for Saturday. Chase Maier leads the league in the 1000 free, Martin Perecinsky in the 200 free, Ben Irwin in both butterfly events, Michael Phillips in the 200 breast, Dean Jones in the 500 free, and Anthony Sciulli in the three-meter dive. Navy also holds the best time in the 400 free relay.
Army’s women’s team arrives in Annapolis with a perfect 7-0 record, including a 170-125 victory over Penn State.Army swimmers and divers have achieved the top time or score in nine events that will be contested on saturday. The Army men’s team has a 4-1 record, with their only defeat being a 169-130 loss to Penn State. The Black Knights have recorded five of the top times or scores in the Patriot League in events slated for Saturday.
Viewing Facts and Access
fans wishing to attend the meet without prior vehicle access are advised to park outside the USNA and walk through the gate one visitors center. Individuals 18 and older must present a government-issued passport or a state-issued driver’s license with a REAL ID, while those 17 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Only approved service animals are permitted within USNA athletic facilities.
The meet will be streamed live on ESPN+, featuring commentary from Baltimore orioles announcer Ben Wagner and five-time Olympic medalist Josh Davis. Live results will be available on both NavySports.com and the Meet Mobile app.
The Army-Navy Star Meet promises a day of intense competition and unwavering spirit, continuing a tradition that embodies the dedication and excellence of these two esteemed institutions.
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