Ursuline Academy Girls Swimming: A Perfect Season and a Promising Future
The Ursuline Academy Girls Swimming team closed out the 2025 winter season with an exclamation point—their fourth consecutive undefeated year—solidifying their dominance in the pool and continuing a tradition of excellence. Under the steady leadership of Head Coach Kelly Ellis, the team not only maintained its winning streak but also navigated pressure, internal challenges, and competition at the highest level with unity, poise, and unmatched determination.
From standout performances at the DIAA State Meet to the emergence of new talent, this season was one to remember, with contributions across all grade levels and a strong sense of team camaraderie. As Coach Ellis reflected on the highs and lows of the year, one message stood out: the team-first mentality made all the difference.
Eliza Johnson: Swimmer of the Year
Every great team has a leader in the water, and for Ursuline, that was Eliza Johnson.
“Eliza had a major impact on our team this year,” said Coach Ellis. “She won both of her events at the state meet and was named Swimmer of the Year.”
Her performance was nothing short of spectacular. In the clutch moments of the state finals, Johnson's combination of speed, skill, and composure set the tone for the rest of the team. She served not just as a point-scorer, but as an inspiration, raising the bar for what it means to compete at the highest level in Delaware high school swimming.
A Season of Perfection
For the fourth consecutive year, the Ursuline Academy Girls Swim team remained undefeated in dual meets—a feat that speaks volumes about the consistency, preparation, and depth of the program.
“It was a great season,” Ellis noted simply, with a calm pride. “Four years undefeated is something not many teams can claim. The consistency of our swimmers and the dedication to training made that possible.”
And it wasn’t just about dominating weaker opponents. The team took on every challenge head-on and delivered strong performances across every meet, culminating in an outstanding run at the state championship.
Turning Conflict Into Chemistry
No perfect season comes without adversity, and for Ursuline, the biggest test came just before the state meet.
“There was some tension right before the meet,” Ellis revealed. “But the team put aside their differences to give the performances that were needed.”
That internal reset proved critical. By prioritizing unity over personal differences, the athletes rallied together when it mattered most. The result? A display of grit, encouragement, and trust that carried them through the high-pressure environment of the biggest meet of the year.
Young Talent Steps Up
While veterans like Eliza Johnson grabbed headlines, the development of underclassmen was equally critical to the team’s sustained success.
One standout was sophomore Mia Devlin, who emerged as a key contributor as the season progressed.
“Mia really stepped up,” said Ellis. “She’s a very mature swimmer and she’s only a sophomore.”
Devlin’s poise, competitive spirit, and work ethic allowed her to assume a larger role, and her trajectory suggests she’ll be a foundational piece of the team moving forward. Her growth is a testament to the program’s ability to develop young swimmers who are ready to shine under pressure.
Responding to Pressure
Swimming is as much a mental game as it is physical. Pressure is inevitable—especially at the state level—but the Ursuline team handled those moments with grace and determination.
“The biggest pressure came at the state meet,” Ellis admitted. “But the team swam well and encouraged each other to do their best.”
That atmosphere of mutual support, built through countless hours in the pool and locker room, paid dividends when nerves were at their highest. The team’s ability to rise to the occasion and lift each other up was a defining feature of their championship run.
Senior Leadership: Voices and Examples
Leadership came in many forms for Ursuline this year. Coach Ellis praised the graduating class not just for their performances, but for the way they guided and shaped the team culture.
“The seniors were a good group of leaders,” she said. “Some led with their voices, while others led by example.”
That balance created a positive, hardworking atmosphere that will linger even after the seniors depart. Their presence ensured that younger swimmers understood what it means to compete for Ursuline, on and off the block.
Looking Ahead: Bright Future on the Horizon
Though saying goodbye to seniors is never easy, the future of the Ursuline swimming program is as bright as ever.
“I can’t wait to see what the team does next year and what incoming swimmers we get that will add to our program,” Ellis shared.
With swimmers like Mia Devlin and others returning, the team already boasts a strong core. Add in the potential of new freshman talent and a culture built on accountability and excellence, and it’s clear that the program is well-positioned to continue its winning ways.
Offseason Goals: Stronger Communication, Stronger Team
Coach Ellis emphasized that the offseason is not just a time for physical training—it’s an opportunity to strengthen communication and prepare mentally for the challenges ahead.
“We’re looking to improve communication with the team and gear them up for the upcoming season,” she explained.
That preparation includes team-building, setting expectations, and ensuring that each swimmer is aligned with the program’s goals. As the team continues to evolve, Ellis is focused on keeping the lines of communication open, ensuring that every athlete feels supported, heard, and motivated.
A Legacy in Motion
Ursuline Academy’s girls' swimming program is more than a team—it’s a legacy of excellence. The 2025 season added another chapter to that story, with undefeated results, state-level accolades, and a renewed sense of purpose heading into the next year.
As the program gears up for a new wave of talent and continued growth, Coach Kelly Ellis remains at the helm, guiding her swimmers with a clear vision and steady leadership.
To view the official results from the DIAA Girls State Meet, visit:
📄 State Meet Results
For dual meet stats and more information on the season’s matchups:
📄 Ursuline Raiders Sports Swimming Page
As the Ursuline swimmers take a short breather before offseason training begins, one thing is clear: the Raiders aren’t done making waves.
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