ROCK HILL, S.C. - Both the men's and women's swim teams have been picked to finish fourth in the SAC by the conference's coaches. 

The Vic Riggs era has already begun in Hickory, with the men's and women's teams already competing against Converse and Wingate. The women picked up their first victory of the season at Converse, coming away with the 148-131 win. 

Both the men's and women's teams had three individuals named to the "swimmers to watch" list. Addison Bartemeyer, Ella Penny, Chloe Vestal made up the women's honorees while Wyatt Herger, Christopher Glebus, and Renato Herran were the men's. 

The Bears continue conference play this week when they travel to Mars Hill on Saturday for a battle with the Lions. Their first home meet will be on Saturday, January 10th, against Wheeling. 

2025-26 SOUTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCE MEN'S SWIMMING PRESEASON COACHES' POLL
1. Wingate - 18 points (3 first-place votes)
2. Catawba - 17 points (2 first-place votes)
3. Carson-Newman - 16 points
4. Lenoir-Rhyne - 11 points
5. Mars Hill - 8 points

2025 SOUTH ATLANTIC CONFERENCE WOMEN'S SWIMMING PRESEASON COACHES' POLL
1. Wingate - 18 points (3 first-place votes)
2. Catawba - 17 points (2 first-place votes)
3. Carson-Newman - 16 points
4. Lenoir-Rhyne - 10 points
5. Mars Hill - 9 points