MADISON, Wis. – The 2015-16 season begins with a bang for the Wisconsin swimming and diving program, as the Badgers begin their new campaign with a home dual meet against border rival Minnesota on Friday at 6 p.m. CT at the UW Natatorium.

The Badgers bring back key contributors on both the men's and women's squads from last season, while also adding a few new swimmers to the roster that look to continue to keep UW a threat this year.

On the women's side, seven swimmers that competed at the 2015 NCAA Championships return to compete in Madison, including Maria Carlson, Dana Grindall, Jenny Holtzen, Chase Kinney, Anna Meinholz, Annie Tamblyn and Danielle Valley.

The women's swim team welcomed nine new freshmen this offseason that will be immediate additions to the team's already strong lineup.

The men's swim team returns four of its NCAA championship athletes, including Ryan Barsanti, Cannon Clifton, Matt Hutchins, and Brett Pinfold.

Seven freshmen were added to the men's swimming roster this season as well.

On the boards, the Badgers return only one woman, junior Ashley Peterson, while they have added four new divers to the roster for 2015-16. Gabriella Comunale, Alexandra Hafey, Hazel Hertting and Dana Liva will all suit up in the Cardinal and White to compete for the Badgers this season.

The men's diving team returns the pair of Dan Cech and Max Reynolds, while adding four new freshmen in Matthew Aronson, Clark Carter, Ethan O'Neill and Andrew Pearce.

The Gophers travel to Madison having already started their season and completed meets against both Florida and Florida State. The Minnesota women's team is 1-0-1 on the year, while the men's team will be looking for its first win of the season as they sit at 0-2 thus far.

The latest installment in the Border Battle between Wisconsin and Minnesota is set to begin on Friday at 6 p.m. at the UW Natatorium.