BURNSVILLE, Minn. -- The Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) has announced its yearly preseason poll and athletes to watch for the sport of swimming & diving. Freshman Fernanda Leon and junior Isabelle Johnson were tabbed as MSUM's athletes to watch in 2024-25. 

MSUM was selected ninth in the preseason poll, garnering 13 points. Augustana topped the initial rankings with 62 points and six first-place votes while Minnesota State came in behind the Vikings with 59 points and the remaining three first-place votes. 

"As we enter the 2024-25 season, we are fortunate to have great upperclassmen leaders that have solidified fantastic team culture. Our strong sophomore and first-year classes are bringing the energy every day and providing talent and versatility that will move the team forward," said MSUM head swimming & diving coach Charlie King, who embarks on his seventh season in 2024-25. "The coaches have really enjoyed watching the team connect and come together. We have been impressed with the effort given and team cohesion built, and look forward to seeing them compete."

Leon begins her collegiate career in 2024-25 after an exceptional prep career. The Lima, Peru, native holds personal best time of 2:17.47 in the 200-yard fly, 1:04:45 in the 100-yard fly, 2:21.33 in the 200-yard IM and 4:54.61 in the 400-yard IM. Leon also set five Peruvian junior national records across various relays before MSUM. 

"We are excited to have Fernanda join the Dragons. Hailing from Lima, Peru, she's a strong versatile swimmer that will immediately impact our team. She specializes in the IM and Fly events, and will be able to contribute on relays as well," said King. "Fernanda has an unyielding commitment to excellence and shows it every day she practices."

Johnson earns the 'diver to watch' distinction after another solid season on the board for MSUM. She competed in nine meets for the Dragons during the season and registered personal-bests in both 3-Meter and 1-Meter at the St. Cloud State Diving Invite. Johnson collected a 390.15 score in 11 dives in 3-Meter at the meet and a 347 in 1-Meter. In six-dive action, Johnson had top scores of 305.60 in 1-Meter and 338.85 in 3-Meter during the year. 

"Isabelle is one of the hardest working athletes we have ever had the privilege to coach. She exemplifies the work ethic of a champion that will greatly benefit her diving career," King noted. "She has been purposeful in building her degree of difficulty and we are very excited for her to compete this season!"

The Dragons are scheduled to begin the season in dual action against the University of Mary on Saturday, October 5 beginning at noon. The meet will take place at the Bismarck State College Aquatic Center in Bismarck, N.D.