St. Louis, MO, Evansville, IN – The Missouri Valley Conference (MVC), in partnership with the Evansville Regional Sports Commission (ERSC), has announced that Evansville, Indiana and the Deaconess Aquatic Center will serve as the host site for the 2026 and 2027 Missouri Valley Conference Swimming and Diving Championships presented by D-Patrick Auto Group.

The 2026 championships will take place February 25–28 and mark a historic milestone for the conference, as it will be the first time MVC men’s and women’s swimming and diving championships are held together, in the same venue, during the same week in over two decades.

This announcement represents another marquee win for the Evansville Regional Sports Commission, which previously partnered with the MVC and Deaconess Aquatic Center to successfully host the 2024 MVC Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships.

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Evansville Regional Sports Commission to host the 2026 and 2027 Missouri Valley Conference Swimming and Diving Championships,” said Zack Hurst, Assistant Commissioner for External Relations for the Missouri Valley Conference. “The Evansville community has been tremendous to work with, and we’re excited to continue elevating the championship experience for our student-athletes. We’re also grateful for the support of D-Patrick Auto Group, our presenting sponsor, and Papa Bear’s Catering for helping deliver outstanding hospitality throughout the event.”

The Deaconess Aquatic Center, one of the premier aquatic facilities in the Midwest, provides a championship-caliber setting for both competitors and spectators while positioning Evansville as a repeat host destination for major collegiate sporting events.
“Hosting the Missouri Valley Conference Swimming and Diving Championships in Evansville further reinforces our reputation as a championship-caliber city,” said Brandon McClish, Executive Director of the Evansville Regional Sports Commission. “These events generate significant economic impact for our community by filling hotel rooms, supporting local restaurants and businesses, and welcoming visitors from across the region. We are grateful to the Missouri Valley Conference for their continued trust in Evansville and proud to showcase our city, our facilities, and our hospitality on a conference-wide stage.”

The championships are made possible through strong community support, including local volunteers who play a vital role in event operations and hospitality. Those interested in volunteering can find more information at: https://www.evansvilleregion.com/sports/

About the Evansville Regional Sports Commission
The Evansville Regional Sports Commission (ERSC) is a 501(c)3 Not-for-Profit dedicated to enhancing the image, economy, and quality of life of the Evansville Region through the attraction, creation, and promotion of high-profile sporting events. 
 
About the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership
The Evansville Regional Economic Partnership (E-REP) advances a thriving, talent-rich Evansville Region through collaboration among communities, businesses, and civic leaders. E-REP works to grow the regional economy by supporting high-quality job creation, workforce development, and a strong quality of place that attracts and retains talent.