News Summary

Oakland City University is set to introduce competitive swimming programs for men and women in the 2026-2027 academic year. Appointed head coach Jake Alexander aims to inspire athletes while the teams, known as the Mighty Oaks, will train at the nearby Toyota Indiana YMCA. This addition marks a significant step in enhancing the university’s athletic offerings, aiming to attract more female athletes and promote a balanced environment amid a surge in male students. With a commitment to fostering school spirit and camaraderie, Oakland City University is excited about this new chapter.

Exciting News for Oakland City: Swimming Programs Coming Soon!

Excitement is in the air for students and sports enthusiasts alike at Oakland City University, located in the charming town of Oakland City, Indiana! This modest institution, known for its dedication to education and community, is gearing up to dive headfirst into the world of competitive swimming with the launch of both men’s and women’s swimming programs in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Meet the New Head Coach!

To lead this exhilarating new venture, the university has appointed Jake Alexander as the first head coach. As a former standout swimmer himself, Alexander brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. He started his swimming journey at Southridge High School, where he not only led his team to victory but also captured the title of 100 breaststroke champion during his senior year. After high school, he continued to hone his skills at Vincennes University, where he made waves by qualifying for the NJCAA National Championship two consecutive years.

But that’s not all! Before taking the reins at Oakland City, Alexander made a splash as the head coach of the Wabash Valley Swim Team, where he managed to grow the team’s roster from a modest 20 swimmers to an impressive 50 over his eight-year tenure. His profound experience and enthusiastic coaching style are sure to inspire the next generation of student-athletes.

Where Will They Swim?

The swimming teams, affectionately dubbed the Mighty Oaks, will practice and compete at the nearby Toyota Indiana YMCA in Princeton, Indiana. This well-equipped facility boasts a newly opened six-lane, 25-yard indoor pool—the perfect spot for the new swimmers to showcase their skills and train for competitions. The YMCA is conveniently located just about 20 minutes away from the university campus, making it easily accessible for student-athletes.

What Brings This Change?

Adding swimming to the ranks of Oakland City’s sports offerings is part of a larger strategy to enhance the university’s athletic programs. With the introduction of swimming as the 18th and 19th varsity sports at Oakland City University, the school takes significant steps to cater to the interests of its student demographic. Currently, the university has 315 varsity athletes, all of whom have access to a variety of sports. Swimming promises to broaden that scope even further, tapping into both competitive spirit and student engagement.

Interestingly, Oakland City University has witnessed an influx of male students, reporting nearly double the number of male undergraduates compared to female. By launching these two new swimming programs, the university hopes to attract more female athletes and promote a more balanced athletic environment.

A Brief History of Oakland City University

Established in 1885, Oakland City University holds a unique position as the only General Baptist Church-affiliated university in the United States. The school has a rich history of fostering academic excellence and a strong sense of community. Now, with the addition of swimming programs, they are taking their commitment to student life and athletics to the next level.

As for the cost of education, tuition for undergraduate programs at Oakland City University is currently set at $27,900 per semester. While college costs can be a consideration for many, the opportunity to participate in vibrant sports programs like swimming adds a layer of value to the university experience.

What’s Next?

With the expansion into swimming, Oakland City University is gearing up for a new chapter that promises to be thrilling for both the athletes and the community. As the Mighty Oaks prepare to make their mark in the swimming pool come 2026, everyone is left eager to see how this exciting new venture unfolds!

Stay tuned for more updates as the university dives into this exciting new chapter, fostering not only athletic prowess but also school spirit and camaraderie in the heart of Oklahoma City. It’s an exciting time to be part of this vibrant community as they make waves in the world of NAIA athletics!

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