JEFFERSON CITY, TN – The Carson-Newman swim team has been ranked 17^th on both the men's and women's sides by the College Swim Coaches of America Association. 

The poll aims to measure the top teams in head-to-head competition. The rankings are voted on by CSCAA-member coaches.

"For me, coming off a solid season last year, having, in my opinion, a stronger team this year at both guys and girls and having more depth," Carson-Newman coach Jordan Taylor said. "I think 17^th preseason is a good indication that other people are paying attention to what Carson-Newman is doing and what we're doing here."

Taylor credit's the depth of his team on both sides for the recognition they've received.

"As we continue to bring stronger and stronger athletes to our team, that starts to put together a strong national ranking," Taylor said. "You can't do it with a couple of good swimmers, it takes a whole team. All of your athletes from sprint to distance have to be strong."

Carson-Newman's upcoming opponent, Wingate, was tabbed 9^th on the women's side and 20^th on the men's.

"Once they see us start competing over the next few weeks… I think we'll see an improvement in our ranking due to the performance of our programs," Taylor said.

The dual-meet against the Bulldogs represents just the second NCAA event of the season for the Eagles and Taylor has emphasized the importance of taking things one event at a time.

"If we continue to focus on ourselves and make ourselves better as individual athletes and as relays that'll make the team stronger and will be reflected in the national standings," Taylor said.