NEW COMMIT: Duke University has secured their fifth early verbal commitment for the fall of 2022 from Junior National qualifier Kiki Kennedy of Rockville Centre, N.Y.
She will join Madeline Meredith, Martina Peroni, Kaelyn Gridley and Tatum Wall in as a member of the Blue Devils’ Class of 2026.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I’m super excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my athletic and academic career at Duke University! A huge thank you to all my friends, family, coaches, and teammates for all of their support! Go blue devils!!
“
A talented backstroker, Kennedy trains year-round with Long Island Aquatic Club and finished fifth in the 100m back at Metropolitan Seniors last February after taking 11th in the 100 back at the NCAP Invitational. In Summer 2019, she earned seven best times at Metropolitan LCM Seniors before going on to compete at the NCSA Championships.
Her best times include:
- 50 back – 26.02
- 100 back – 53.52
- 200 back – 1:58.21
- 50 free – 24.01
- 100 free – 52.74
- 200 free – 1:53.89
Currently a junior at South Side High School, Kennedy grabbed the bronze medal in the 100 back at the New York Federation Championships during her sophomore season. She has also earned USA Swimming Scholastic All-American honors for her efforts in the pool and in the classroom.
When she arrives on campus in the fall of 2022, Kennedy will add her talents to a training group led by Emma Shuppert and Emily Lenihan. She also would’ve placed in the C-final of the 100 back at the 2020 ACC Championships where the Blue Devils finished sixth overall in the team standings.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.