STANFORD, Calif. - Stanford swimming has accepted an invitation to compete in the inaugural season of the College Swimming League (CSL), as announced by the league on Saturday morning.
"We're excited for the opportunity to compete in the College Swimming League this fall," said Paul A. Violich Director of Women's Swimming Chris Lindauer and The Goldman Family Director of Men's Swimming Dan Schemmel in a joint statement. "We believe the CSL will provide an innovative format and competitive experience that will be challenging and fun for our student-athletes to be a part of."
The College Swimming League is a new, dynamic league poised to revolutionize college swimming with high-octane, fan-focused competition. The league's first season will feature a six-match regular season and a two-match postseason in a four-team format during the fall season, with each participating institution competing in two regular-season matches.
"Stanford is one of the most respected names in all of college sports, and their swimming program is right there at the top of the list," said Rob Kent, CEO of the College Swimming League. "They’ve got a long history of developing Olympians and elite swimmers, and that tradition speaks for itself. Having them in our first season is something we’re really proud of."
Stanford becomes the 10th institution announced by the league for the 2026 season, joining Alabama, Auburn, California, Georgia, Louisville, Michigan, NC State, Ohio State and Virginia. Two more programs will be announced at a later date to complete the debut field, which will compete from late September to early November.
"Stanford has been a powerhouse in this sport for decades," added CSL Chief Operating Officer Kyle Sockwell. "Chris brings a proven track record of elevating programs everywhere he’s been, and Dan has the men competing with the best in the country. The talent runs deep on both sides, and they’re going to make everyone around them better."
Further details regarding the 2026 College Swimming League schedule will be announced in the coming months.