NEW COMMIT: The University of Kentucky has gained a new member for the class of 2023 in John Michael Gordon who will join the Wildcats next fall.
A native of Lynchburg, Va., Gordon trains with Lynchburg YMCA and concluded his long course season with a trio of lifetime bests at Junior Nationals after a strong showing at the VA LCM Senior Championships. Gordon, who owns six Junior National cuts, had four finals appearances at YMCA Nationals in April and picked up a pair of new best times.
Also competing for Liberty Christian Academy, Gordon is a six-time VHSL 4A State Championship finalist. He placed second in the 500 free and third in the 200 free as a junior after placing fourth in the 500 and sixth in the 200 IM as a sophomore.
He told Swimming World:
“When you strive most of your life to reach a goal it is very hard to put into words the excitement you feel when you reach that goal. The opportunity to swim and study at the University of Kentucky is one I will not take for granted. I thank my family and coaches for their commitment to my future. I can’t wait to join my fellow Wildcat teammates and get after new goals. Go Cats!!!”
His best times include:
- 200 free – 1:39.58
- 500 free – 4:29.39
- 100 back – 50.17
- 200 back – 1:47.41
- 200 fly – 1:51.02
- 200 IM – 1:51.80
- 400 IM – 3:57.35
Gordon’s versatility will bode well for the Wildcats when he arrives in Lexington for the 2019-20 season. He’ll join a freestyle group that includes Hank Siefert, Jason Head and John Mitchell. Kentucky finished ninth at last season’s SEC Championships.
