Gators Take A Chomp Into Class Of 2026 With Verbal From Santiago Alzate-Celin
NEW COMMIT: The University of Florida has scored a verbal commitment for Fall 2026 from Olympic Trials qualifier Santiago Alzate-Celin out of Charlotte, North Carolina. He’s one of the top recruits in this class and the Gators’ first public pledge.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am thrilled and humbled to announce my verbal commitment to further my athletic and academic career at the University of Florida! There are so many people who have helped me tremendously in reaching this decision. I want to give special thanks to my coaches, my mom, dad, and sister! A huge thanks also goes to Coach Nesty and Coach Whitney for this amazing opportunity. GO GATORS!!!”
Alzate-Celin trains year-round with SwimMAC Carolina and raced the 400m IM at Olympic Trials this past summer before going on to take ninth in that event at Speedo Summer Championships. Last winter, he finished 14th in the mile at Juniors East and had four top-5 finishes at North Carolina Seniors.
His best times include:
- 1650 free – 15:23.69
- 500 free – 4:20.62
- 200 free – 1:38.02
- 400 IM – 3:51.41
- 200 IM – 1:49.85
Currently a junior at Charlotte Country Day School, Alzate-Celin won the 500 free and placed second in the 200 free at the 2024 NCISSA DI State Championships. He swam for Ardrey Kell High School as a freshman, taking fifth in the 500 free at the North Carolina 4A State Championships.
The Gators won their 12th consecutive Southeastern Conference title in 2024.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
Congratulations! 👌🏼