NEW COMMIT: The University of Arizona has earned a new in-state verbal commitment for the 2020-21 season and beyond from backstroker Mateja “Matt” Milovanovic of Phoenix, Az.
Milovanovic, who swims year-round with Phoenix Swim Club under coaches Garrett McCaffrey and Mike Maczuga, owns the U.S. Open cuts in both backstroke events. He raced three events at Junior Nationals after achieving five best times at Mount Hood Speedo Sectionals this past summer. Last winter, he had a strong showing at Juniors West before going on to earn bronze medals in the 100/200 back combo at Arizona Senior Opens.
A current senior at Brophy College Prep where he also serves as team captain, Milovanovic is a six-time Arizona State Championship finalist. The two-time NISCA and USA Swimming Scholastic All-American won the 100 back and was the 200 IM runner-up as a junior en route to helping his team secure their 31st-straight team title. He also placed seventh in the 500 free and eighth in the 200 free during his sophomore season after finishing 11th and 12th, respectively, in those events during his rookie campaign.
He told Swimming World:
“Very humbled and excited to commit to the University of Arizona! The team culture, the coaching caliber and the school support provide an environment to accomplish amazing things both athletically and academically. Thank you to my family, my friends and my coaches. Proud to be part of the Wildcat family! #beardown”
His best times include:
- 50 back – 23.73
- 100 back – 50.27
- 200 back – 1:48.26
- 200 IM – 1:51.61
- 100 free – 46.20
- 200 free – 1:40.05
Milovanovic has made big improvements over the past three seasons, dropping nine seconds in the 100 back and 19 seconds in the 200 back with a year of club swimming still to go. When he arrives in Tucson, he’ll add his talents to a backstroke training group that’ll be led by Isaac Stump. He’ll also join Jake Hand in the Wildcats’ class of 2024.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
Go Wildcats!!!