Bolivar, Mo. - 34 student-athletes are the first ever Bearcats to enter the pool at Southwest Baptist University this semester, ready to pave the way for a new program and create a culture that supports one another and honors God above all. Coming from different backgrounds, the team is made up of siblings, high school teammates, team captains, and state champions, representing six different states. With the season underway, these student-athletes feel confident with their commitment to tackle the challenges and opportunities of building a brand-new program and team culture.         

"I was motivated to join the SBU swim team because it was a place that could glorify God with a gift of swimming that He had given me. Being in a first-year program, we are able to create a culture that embodies the fruit of the Spirit and truly gives God the glory for everything," freshman Natalie Block said.

Creating a new team allows these student-athletes and coaches to take what they loved from past teams and build something new together. The roster consists of freshmen and sophomores who are ready to create a team that feels like a family—in and out of the pool.

"This team is different from other teams I've been a part of because everyone gets along so well, and it feels more like a family than a team," sophomore Brogan Meier said.

Whether the swim team is hanging out in the Union or doing a Bible study with one another, there are some things that, from the outside, can't be seen. Coach Gavin is said by the swimmers to be incredibly wise and so intentional with his coaching style. The athletes can tell that he cares more about their relationship with the Lord and their spiritual health than how they perform in the water.

"We appreciate any support we can get," said Meier. "Even some fans make a huge difference! Like any team and athlete, we're putting in 4+ hours of work any given day into our sport that doesn't get a lot of recognition or attention… Anyone who pops out to support us at any meet shows they truly care about us and the school, and it really encourages the team. It makes us feel seen!"

With a new team come new beginnings, new goals, and new records. The Fall 2025 semester marks the start of Southwest Baptist University's first-ever swim team, with 34 athletes ready to make history and set the tone for the program's future.

"I think the biggest mark anyone can leave on any program…is the culture. Developing the culture of this brand-new team is vital for the program's success. I think creating traditions that set us apart from other teams does that—Bible studies with the team weekly, praying behind the blocks for each other, and praying for opponents. Those small things can make a huge difference… My goal is to make sure those kinds of things happen not only this year but also while I enroll here and long after I graduate," Meier said.

Block even said that she is excited and looking forward to the team legacy and culture that they are going to cultivate over the years. She hopes that the culture will reflect the Lord and give all the glory to Him. The team wants to be set apart and on fire for the Lord in all they do. So far only being able to capture the beginning of a new adventure for the Bearcats means they have a long lane in front of them, but as the season continues, these 34 athletes lay the foundation for what is next, one practice, prayer, and race at a time. Their legacy starts now, and the Bearcats are just getting warmed up.