NEW COMMITS: Denison University has scored another set of verbal commitments for the 2021-22 season from Boiling Springs, S.C. Sophie Kannee and Lauren Kelly of Syracuse, N.Y.
Both talented swimmers will join Maria Mrosko, Annie Pfeufer, Zoe Barclay and Maja Palmroos as a member of the Big Red’s class of 2025.
Under head coach Gregg Parini, the Big Red have clinched six NCAA Division III National Championship titles and 16 national runner-up finishes.
SOPHIE KANNEE
Photo Courtesy: Maggie Kannee
She told Swimming World:
“I am thrilled to announce my verbal commitment to study and swim at Denison University. I can’t wait to be part of this amazing swim program! Thanks to everyone who’s been part of this journey. Go Big Red!”
Kannee does her club swimming with Y-Spartaquatics and most recently placed 16th in the 200 back and 19th in the 400 IM at South Carolina Seniors in February. In summer 2019, she finaled in five events at South Carolina LCM Seniors before going on to earn 100% best times at YMCA LCM Nationals.
Her best times include:
- 50 back – 27.39
- 100 back – 57.55
- 200 back – 2:06.59
- 100 fly – 58.16
- 200 IM – 2:13.37
Also competing for Spartanburg High School, Kannee is a six-time South Carolina 5A State Championship finalist. She won the 100 back and finished third in the 100 fly as a senior while taking fourth and ninth, respectively, in those events during her junior season.
LAUREN KELLY
Photo Courtesy: Lauren Kelly
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I’m beyond excited to continue my academic and athletic career at Denison! Can’t wait for the next 4! Go Big Red!!❤️”
Kelly trains year-round with Camillus Swim Club and was the runner-up in the 200 breast and placed fourth in the 50 back at the WEBS Power Point meet in January. She also finaled in the 100 breast at Ithaca Sectionals in March 2019 after earning bronze in both the 50 free and 100 breast at the Niagara Championships.
Her best times include:
- 50 breast – 30.78
- 100 breast – 1:06.03
- 200 breast – 2:27.82
- 50 free – 24.34
While representing Christian Brothers Academy, Kelly has competed at the New York Federation Championships the last three years. As a junior, she raced to 11th in the 100 breast and 20th in the 50 free. She won both of those events at the Section 3 State Qualifier meet as well.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
