NEW COMMIT: Chicopee, Mass. native and U.S. Open qualifier Ella Smith has given the University of Minnesota their second early verbal commitment for the fall of 2022.
She will join Faith Johnson of Menomonee Falls, Wis. as a member of the Golden Gophers’ Class of 2026.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I am WICKED excited to announce my verbal commitment to swim at the University of Minnesota!!! I chose Minnesota because it is home to an incredible coaching staff. They have done an amazing job establishing a team culture that truly feels like a family. This program is not only outstandingly successful in the pool, but is perfect for me as a person and as a swimmer. I cannot wait to become a part of this amazing family!! Go Gophers!
“
Primarily a breaststroker, Smith trains with Bluefish Swim Club and most recently won the 200 breast with four additional top-8 finishes at the 18&U Winter Championships in Massachusetts after competing at the Toyota U.S. Open in Richmond. Back in March, she was the runner-up in the 200m breast at Plantation Sectionals.
In Summer 2019, she swept both breaststroke events at New England LCM Seniors before going on to race four events at Junior Nationals.
Her best times include:
- 100 breast – 1:02.98
- 200 breast – 2:16.44
- 500 free – 4:59.03
- 1000 free – 10:13.93
- 1650 free – 17:02.55
- 200 IM – 2:02.57
- 400 IM – 4:20.19
Currently a junior at Chicopee Comprehensive High School, Smith secured gold in the 100 breast and silver in the 200 IM at the Massachusetts DI State Championships during her sophomore season. She also split a 29.06 on the breaststroke leg of her team’s 4×50 medley relay and anchored the 4×100 free relay in 52.38.
When she arrives on campus at the start of the 2022-23 season, Smith will add her talents to a training group led by Emma Lezer and Grace Bennin.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
