Eleni Gewalt Named Big 12 Swimmer of the Week | Arizona Swimming & Diving

TUCSON, Ariz. – University of Arizona swimmer Eleni Gewalt has been named Big 12 Swimmer of the Week, the conference announced today, February 12, 2026. This marks the second time this season the senior has earned the honor, following a dominant performance against Arizona State last week.

Gewalt’s performance against the No. 17 Arizona State Sun Devils was highlighted by season-best times in both the 100-meter and 200-meter breaststroke events. She secured first place in the 100 breaststroke with a time of 59.13 seconds, and followed that up with a winning time of 2:11.39 in the 200 breaststroke. These times represent significant achievements for Gewalt and contribute to her growing reputation as a force in the Big 12 conference.

Beyond her individual successes, Gewalt played a pivotal role in Arizona’s relay victories. She was a key contributor to the winning 200-meter medley relay team, posting a split time of 26.58 seconds for her breaststroke leg. She also contributed to the 200-meter freestyle relay, which finished fourth with a time of 22.81 seconds.

Gewalt’s recent accolades build upon a strong season for the Arizona Swim &amp. Dive team. Her consistent performance has been a cornerstone of the team’s success, and her leadership is expected to be crucial as they approach the Big 12 Championships. The Wildcats are looking to make a strong showing at the conference meet, and Gewalt’s form suggests she will be a major contender for individual titles.

The Big 12 Championships are scheduled to take place in Greensboro, North Carolina, from February 24 to February 28. This event will be a critical test for Arizona, as they compete against other top swimming programs in the conference. The championships will also serve as a qualifying meet for the NCAA Championships, adding another layer of importance to each race.

Gewalt’s recognition comes on the heels of earlier Big 12 awards for Arizona swimmers this season. Haakon Naughton was previously named Big 12 Men’s Swimmer of the Week after his strong showing against Texas A&M in December 2025, as reported by ArizonaWildcats.com. This demonstrates the depth of talent within the Arizona swimming program and their ability to consistently produce top-level athletes.

The Big 12 conference has also recognized athletes from other institutions recently. According to Big12Sports.com, Utah’s Isaac Holbrook was named Big 12 Men’s Newcomer of the Week in December 2025. Arizona State and Houston have also had athletes honored, highlighting the competitive nature of swimming and diving within the conference.

Looking ahead, the Arizona Swim & Dive team will be focused on preparing for the Big 12 Championships. Coach Rick DeMont, while not directly quoted in available materials, will likely emphasize continued refinement of technique, strategic race planning, and maintaining peak physical condition for his athletes. The team’s performance in Greensboro will be a key indicator of their potential for success at the national level.

Gewalt’s ability to consistently deliver strong performances, both individually and as part of relay teams, makes her a valuable asset to the Arizona program. Her dedication and skill are evident in her recent achievements, and she is poised to make a significant impact at the Big 12 Championships and beyond. The Wildcats will rely on her leadership and competitive spirit as they navigate the challenges of the conference meet and strive for a top finish.

The upcoming Big 12 Championships promise to be a thrilling competition, with several talented swimmers and divers vying for titles and NCAA qualifying spots. Eleni Gewalt will undoubtedly be one of the athletes to watch, as she looks to build on her recent success and contribute to Arizona’s overall team performance. Fans can follow the action live from Greensboro as the Wildcats compete for conference glory.