Bernatsky Wins 1-Meter Title at AAU Diving Nationals – Iowa Hawkeyes Athletics

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Second-year Zita Bernatsky won the one-meter title on the final day of the 2026 AAU Diving National Championships on Thursday.

Bernatsky won the event with a 299.20, which wrapped up a three-day run of top-five finishes. The sophomore from Winnipeg posted a lifetime best and won the title by nearly 12 points.

First-year Bianca Hutter showcased her talent with a fourth-place total of 279.25. Kamila Swanson (244.75) and Stephanie Avram (236.15) rounded out the Hawkeyes in action on Thursday.

“I couldn’t be more pleased with the team’s performance this week,” diving coach Todd Waikel said. “I am especially happy with Zita’s win on 1-meter. The team’s hard work this summer paid off and all the women have a lot to be proud of.”

Tuesday’s events began with the platform dive, where Bernatsky picked up her first of two personal records on the week. She finished fourth overall to lead the Hawkeyes with a 239.05. Avram placed 10^th with 201.35 points. Swanson’s 177.95 points earned 13^th place, while Hutter finished with 171.10 and in 15th.

On Wednesday, all four Hawkeyes made it through the three-meter prelims and on to the evening’s final. Swanson led the way with the bronze and a personal-best 294.75. Bernatsky finished fifth at 281.95. Hutter (250.90) and Avram (238.10) rounded out the top 10 for Iowa.

HAWKEYE RESULTS
One-Meter Dive
1. Zita Bernatsky – 299.20, PR
4. Bianca Hutter – 279.25
10. Kamila Swanson – 244.75
11. Stephanie Avram – 236.15

Three-Meter Dive
3. Kamila Swanson – 294.75, PR
5. Zita Bernatsky – 281.95
8. Bianca Hutter – 250.90
10. Stephanie Avram – 238.10

Platform Dive
4. Zita Bernatsky – 239.05, PR
10. Stephanie Avram – 201.35
13. Kamila Swanson – 177.95
15. Bianca Hutter – 171.10