Lynn University graduate student Luna Mertins has been named a finalist for the DII Honda Athlete of the Year for Swimming & Diving, as announced today by Chris Voelz, Executive Director of The Collegiate Women Sports Awards (CWSA) presented by Honda.
Mertins is among 11 elite finalists for this prestigious award, recognizing the top NCAA Division II athletes across various sports. The winner will be determined through national balloting by representatives from over 1,000 NCAA member schools and will be honored during a live telecast on CBS Sports Network in June in New York City.
“Swimming at Lynn taught me that success isn’t just about individual wins—it’s about connection, growth, and being there for one another,” stated Mertins. “I’m incredibly grateful for the strong foundation I had with my team and coaches at SG Frankfurt, who helped shape me into the athlete I am today. But coming to Lynn brought something new—a team that feels like a family, always pushing, supporting, and celebrating together. That environment changed the way I see the sport and made me fall in love with swimming all over again.”
Most recently, Mertins was named the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) National Swimmer of the Year and the Sunshine State Conference (SSC) Swimmer of the Year, capping off a spectacular season with a dominant performance at the NCAA Championships. The Friedberg, Germany native captured two individual national titles, set two NCAA Division II records, and now holds five conference records. She was also crowned the 2025 Swimmer of the Meet at the SSC Championships.
Mertins claimed individual national titles in both the 100 Fly and 100 Free, shattering NCAA Division II records in both events. She also earned a runner-up finish in the 100 Back and placed third in the 50 Free at the NCAA Championships. Her dominance extends to the conference level, where she holds SSC records in all four events, as well as the 200 Free Relay.
Throughout her illustrious career at Lynn, Mertins has amassed an incredible four national championships, winning the 100 Free and 100 Fly twice (2022 and 2025) and contributing to the 200 Medley Relay victory in 2024. She is a 28-time All-American and a 23-time First Team All-American, cementing her place as one of the most decorated swimmers in program history.
“Luna is a talented force in the pool, breaking Division II national records in the 100 fly and 100 free with unwavering dedication and skill,” stated head coach Niki Alvarez. “Beyond her extraordinary talent, she is a true teammate—always supporting and inspiring those around her. Her passion for the sport and genuine kindness makes her a standout both in and out of the water and a perfect nominee for this award.”
Now in its 49th year, the CWSA honors the nation’s top female collegiate athletes for their exceptional athletic performance, leadership, academic achievements, and community service. Since partnering with Honda in 1986, the program has awarded over $3.4 million in institutional grants to support women’s athletics at universities across the country.
About Honda Corporate Social Responsibility
For more than 60 years in the U.S., Honda has been committed to making positive contributions to the communities where its associates live and work. Honda’s mission is to create products and services that improve the lives of people while conducting its business in a sustainable manner and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Accordingly, Honda believes in helping people reach their life’s potential through its focus on the areas of education, the environment, mobility, traffic safety and community. Learn more at http://csr.honda.com/.