WASHINGTON (September 24, 2026) – Howard University swimming & diving opens the 2026-27 campaign Friday (Sept. 25) at the annual Potomac Relays, hosted by George Mason University, in Fairfax, Va. The first race is set for 4 p.m.
 
SEASON OUTLOOK
 
Director of Swimming & Diving Nicholas Askew enters another season leading the Howard program with both squads aiming to return to the top of the NEC standings.
 
MEN
 
The men's squad enters the new campaign as back-to-back NEC champions after capturing its third league title in four seasons in February.
 
Howard returns several key contributors from last year's championship squad, including seniors Ameer Bashir (Hartley, Del.), Adam Diaz (Manhattan, N.Y.) and Mason Green (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.) and junior Mark Brown (Charlotte, N.C.).
 
The Bison also welcomed a new group of student-athletes, looking to help defend the conference crown.
 
WOMEN
 
The women's squad enters the season as the reigning NEC champions after capturing the first conference title in program history a year ago.
 
Howard returns senior Rhanishka Gibbs (Nassau, Bahamas) and senior Iala Cropper (Rochester, N.Y.), along with junior Chanice Posada (Houston), who were part of last season's championship team. The Bison will look to build on last year's historic campaign and defend their NEC title.
 
MEET PREVIEW
 
The Potomac Relays will feature Howard, George Mason, American, Georgetown, Mary Washington and Mount St. Mary's.
 
The meet consists of a series of relay events, including the 200 Medley Relay, 800 Freestyle Relay, 3x100 Butterfly Relay, 3x100 Backstroke Relay, 3x100 Breaststroke Relay, 500 Freestyle Relay, 4x100 IM Relay, 1000 Freestyle Relay and 200 Freestyle Relay.
 
UPCOMING SCHEDULE
 
Saturday (Oct. 10), Howard returns to Burr Gym Pool to host crosstown rival Georgetown in the annual Battle at The Burr. The first race is scheduled for 2 p.m.
 
For more information, visit the Bison Athletics website at www.HUBison.com.