NEW COMMIT: The University of Kentucky has recently landed a huge verbal commitment for the 2022-23 season from U.S. Open qualifier Levi Sandidge of Richardson, Texas, who is one of the top recruits in his class.
He will join Ryan Merani, Brady McInerney, Logan Smith and Logan Ingerick as a member of the Wildcats’ Class of 2026.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am so thrilled to announce my verbal commitment to the University of Kentucky to continue my academic and athletic career. I am so lucky to have the best coaches, teammates, and family who have supported me through this journey. GO CATS!”
A talented distance swimmer, Sandidge does his club swimming with City of Richardson Swim Team and won the mile at the NCSA Championships in March where he also placed second in the 1000 free. He collected three gold medals at the 18&U Winter Championships – LAC after racing three events at the Toyota U.S. Open.
His best times include:
- 500 free – 4:25.76
- 1000 free – 8:59.57
- 1650 free – 14:57.96
- 400 IM – 3:53.21
A rising senior at Richardson High School, Sandidge placed third in the 500 free as a junior while taking fifth in that event during his sophomore season at the Texas 6A State Championships. The USA Swimming Scholastic All-American is also a five-time 6A Region 02 Championship finalist.
Sandidge is a huge pickup for the Wildcats, as he would’ve ranked No. 1 on their roster last season in the 1000/1650. His best mile time would’ve placed in the top-20 at last year’s conference meet and he’ll have two years of overlap with Zane Rosely, who was the first UK male freshman swimmer since 2013 to earn a bid to the NCAA Championships in 2021.
His best 1000 time is already faster than the school record, while his mile time currently sits at No. 2 all-time.
The Wildcats finished seventh overall in the team standings at the 2021 SEC Championships under head coach Lars Jorgensen.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
