Purdue Keeps Junior National Qualifier Ripley Merritt In State
NEW COMMIT: Junior National qualifier Ripley Merritt of Yonder, Indiana, has elected to remain in-state for her college career after verbally committing to Purdue University beginning in Fall 2024.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I am so excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Purdue University!! I’m so thankful for my family, friends, and coaches who have supported me throughout this journey and my swim career. So excited to rep black and gold!! 💛🖤🚂 #boilerup #boilerbaby #B1G”
A backstroke and butterfly specialist, Merritt does her club swimming with Summit City Aquatics and most recently raced at Junior Nationals after placing 14th in both the 100m and 200m back at Indiana LCM Seniors. She won the 200 back and earned bronze in the 200 IM at Indiana SCY Seniors back in March.
Her best times include:
- 100 back – 54.21
- 200 back – 1:58.96
- 100 fly – 54.81
- 200 fly – 2:04.72
- 200 IM – 2:05.62
Currently a senior at Homestead High School, Merritt finished fourth in the 100 back and fifth in the 100 fly at the 2023 Indiana State Championships. The USA Swimming Scholastic All-American placed fifth and sixth, respectively, in those events as a sophomore.
Merritt’s best 100 back time is already fast enough to qualify for the C-final at the Big Ten Championships.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
