NEW COMMITS: Distance ace Stella Grace Watts of Tallahassee, Fla. has handed the University of Alabama their first verbal commitment for the fall of 2022.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I am so excited to announce my verbal commitment to attend the University Of Alabama to pursue my academic and swimming career! Couldn’t have of done it with out the love and support from my coaches, family, and friends! Can’t wait to start this new journey! Roll tide!?❤️”
A Junior National qualifier, Watts swims year-round with Area Tallahassee Aquatic Club and placed sixth in the mile and 10th in the 500 free at Juniors East in December. She also finaled in the 400m free at the TYR Pro Swim Series in Knoxville and most recently recorded two best times at the Florida OT Qualifier.
Last summer, she finished sixth in the 800m free and seventh in the 400m free at Gainesville Sectionals before going on to earn silver in the 800m free and bronze in the 400m free at Greensboro Futures.
Her best times include:
- 200 free – 1:50.33
- 500 free – 4:49.14
- 1000 free – 10:23.71
- 1650 free – 16:33.68
- 400 IM – 4:25.11
Currently a junior at Lawton Chiles High School, Watts is already a four-time Florida 3A State Championship finalist. She finished third in the 200 free and fourth in the 500 free as a sophomore while taking sixth in the 100 free and fourth in the 200 free during her freshman campaign.
Watts will make an immediate impact when she arrives in Tuscaloosa as a member of the class of 2026 and will fill the distance freestyle void that will be left due to the graduation of Kensey McMahon. Watts would’ve placed 20th in the mile at the 2020 SEC Championships.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
