Burnaby's Mariya Chekanovych made Simon Fraser University history as the first Clan athlete to win a NCAA Division II national title.

The SFU freshman swimmer won a national title in the 100-yard breaststroke on the third day of competition at the NCAA championships in Birmingham, Alabama on March 8.

Chekanovych, the top-ranked swimmer in that event, raced to a new NCAA record time of 1:01.50, 35 seconds faster than runner-up Kayla Scott of Wayne State.

The national title was the first in any sport for SFU since becoming an official member of the NCAA last summer. It was also the first national championship ever won by an athlete representing an international institution in the NCAA.

"There's something about her consistency. She has been at her best this season, when we are in high pressure situations," said SFU head coach Liam Donnelly in a school press release.

Chekanovych earned a second national title on the final day of competition, winning the 200 yds. Breast in time of 2:13.35.

The first-year swimmer also teamed with Kristine Lawson, Alexandria Schofield and Nicole Cossey for a bronze medal in the 200-yds. Medley relay on the opening day of competition.

Chekanovych also won the consolation final in the 200-yds. Individual medley.

Cossey also made a final for SFU in the 100 yds. Freestyle, placing sixth with a 51.12 clocking. Earlier, Cossey was seventh in the free sprint.

On Day 2, the Clan 400-yds. Medley relay team of Lawson, Chekanovych, Schofield and Cossey earned a silver medal at the nationals.

Carmen Nam placed in the top 10 in the 200 yds. Butterfly, finishing runner-up in the consolation final in a time of 2:02.62.

The Clan team finished in ninth place overall despite a team of just six swimmers.