Junior Pan Pacs Bronze Medalist Aiden Hammer Picks Cal for 2026
NEW COMMIT: The University of California, Berkeley has picked up a new verbal commitment for the 2026-27 season and beyond from Olympic Trials qualifier Aiden Hammer of Fox Island, Washington.
Hammer is the first public verbal commitment for the Golden Bears’ Class of 2030. He owns one of the fastest time in his class in the 200 free.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am incredibly excited to announce that I will be furthering my development as an athlete and as a student at the University of California, Berkeley. I thank God for leading me to this decision and thank my family, friends, coaches, and competitors for helping me achieve this. Thank you to the Cal coaches for allowing me this opportunity. Much love to all, Go Bears!!”
Hammer represented Team USA at Junior Pan Pacs in August. There, he earned bronze in the 400m free after earning the top seed after prelims. He also finished seventh in both the 800m free and 1500m free. He led off the 4x200m free relay, too.
Hammer trains year-round with King Aquatic Club. He finished 15th in the 800m free at Olympic Trials, and took 16th in the 1500m free and 18th in the 800m free at the Toyota U.S. Open. He collected three gold medals at Federal Way Sectionals in March.
His best times include:
- 200 free – 1:37.95
- 500 free – 4:23.24
- 1000 free – 9:06.92
- 1650 free – 15:16.15
Currently a junior at Gig Harbor High School, Hammer won the 200 free and 500 free as a freshman at the 2023 Washington 3A State Championships.
The Golden Bears finished second at the 2024 NCAA Championships. Cal now competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
