NEW COMMITS: Liberty University has received a pair of verbal commitments for the 2021-22 season and beyond from Willis, Texas native Mary-Ashlynne Gordon, and after changing her commitment from Kentucky, Sydney Stricklin of Clarkston, Mich.
Both talented swimmers will join Kate Baker as a member of the Lady Flames’ class of 2025. Liberty clinched their third conference title in program history at the 2020 CCSA Championships.
MARY-ASHLYNNE GORDON
Photo Courtesy: Mary-Ashlynne Gordon
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“What I love about Liberty is that it’s so unique! There is no other school out there that is Christian, has fast swimming and competes at the Division 1 level. Plus the campus was beautiful and offers so much to the students. I want to thank Coach Jake and Coach Jessica for being so nice and supportive though the whole recruiting process. I’m really excited to be joining a team of fellow believers! Go Flames! ??❤️”
Primarily a freestyler, Gordon does her club swimming with Conroe Area Team Swimmers and is a Futures qualifier. She most recently was the runner-up in both the 500 free and mile at the Gulf SCY Championships in March where she achieved eight lifetime bests. Last summer, she notched four best times at Austin Sectionals en route to finishing 16th in the 800m free.
Her best times include:
- 200 free – 1:57.62
- 500 free – 5:02.57
- 1000 free – 10:35.67
- 1650 free – 17:21.49
SYDNEY STRICKLIN
Photo Courtesy: Sydney Stricklin
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“After having time for reflection during this unprecedented time, I’m excited to announce my verbal commitment to Liberty University! To live, learn, study, and swim at such a gorgeous university with facilities that are second to none, is truly a dream come true. I’m thankful for all who have supported me in making this decision. I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to be a part of this amazing young program.❤️?”
Stricklin competes year-round with Club Wolverine and owns the Olympic Trials cut in the 50m free with five additional Junior National standards. The two-time USA Swimming Scholastic All-American finished 15th in the 100 free at Juniors East in December and earned a pair of best times at Junior Nationals this past summer. She also won the 100/200 free combo at Michigan Open last winter.
Her best times include:
- 50m free – 25.89 (Olympic Trials cut)
- 100 free – 50.31
- 200 free – 1:48.10
- 100 back – 54.98
- 200 back – 1:58.75
- 400 IM – 4:21.01
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
Way to go ladies ????!! Especially Mary-Ashlynne Gordon!! May God bless both of you abundantly