NEW COMMIT: Scotts Valley, Calif. native Bailey Lemmon has declared her commitment to Westmont College as a member of the class of 2023, becoming the program’s first-ever recruit as they are set to open their inaugural season this fall.
Lemmon swims year-round with Aptos Cabrillo Swim Club and also represents Scotts Valley High School. The Warriors will compete in the Pacific Collegiate Swimming Conference this upcoming fall as part of the NAIA.
“I am humbled by the opportunity to coach Bailey for her college swimming career,” said Westmont head coach Jill Jones-Lin. “After meeting with her, it was evident that she is passionate about working hard and is a great teammate and leader. The fact that she wants to help build the program from the ground up is a huge testament to her character.”
“I am most looking forward to helping establish Westmont’s inaugural swim team,” said Lemmon. “I am excited to be a part of new beginnings at Westmont and to help lead a new group of athletes in and out of the pool. I am also really looking forward to swimming with Coach Jones. It is evident she is passionate about the sport and wants to build a strong, loving team atmosphere.”
“Bailey comes from a competitive background,” said Jones-Lin. “She broke four high school records, was league champion in the 50 and 100 freestyle in 2017, and was a four-time Coast Valley Athletic League High-Point winner. Additionally, Bailey qualified for the Central Coast Section Swimming Championships individually in the 50 and 100 free.”
Lemmon’s best times include:
- 50 free – 24.68
- 100 free – 54.42
- 100 back – 1:00.93
- 100 fly – 1:00.20
“Bailey’s best times would qualify her for the NAIA National Championship meet,” noted Jones-Lin, “and I’m excited about the possibility of having an individual qualifier and a relay represent Westmont at the national championship meet.”
“In addition to the beautiful Santa Barbara campus, the most appealing aspect of Westmont is the people,” said Lemmon on why she selected Westmont. “Students are able to build relationships with their professors in and out of the classroom and the students are so welcoming and comforting. When you are on campus, you really feel the love. It’s like everyone truly wants you to be there. I also know I will be challenged academically and athletically and encouraged to grow in my character.”
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
Westmont College Athletics contributed to this post.
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