Rylee Erisman Becomes Youngest American to Clock Sub-25 Effort in 50 Freestyle
One of the top rising teenagers on the American scene, Rylee Erisman broke through a special barrier during the final night of the National Club Swimming Association Championships on Saturday night.
Competing in the 50-meter freestyle (long course), the 14-year-old Erisman cracked the 25-second barrier to become the youngest American to accomplish the feat. Erisman touched the wall in 24.98, an effort that made her the National Age Group (NAG) record-holder in the event. USA Swimming lists the previous record at 25.00, but Swimming World’s archives show the record formerly belonged to Missy Franklin at 25.23.
Erisman, who trains under coach Kyle Goller with Windermere Laker Aquatics, has proven herself to be a fledgling star in a number of events, and over several distances. She figures to contend for a berth to finals in several events at this summer’s United States Olympic Trials in Indianapolis. As a sub-25 performer in the 50 freestyle, and with a few months of preparation ahead, the sprint event will be one of those events.
Erisman was the subject of a recent Special Sets piece in Swimming World.
“What makes Rylee a great swimmer is her love for the sport and her ability to push her teammates so the team can get better,” Goller said. “She likes to joke with teammates and makes practice fun for everyone. Rylee is a positive influence and consummate teammate who leads by example.
“She is very intelligent and not stressful around the goal-setting process. She sets goals quietly and understands that if she doesn’t get them at one meet, she brushes it off, knowing what she needs to do to improve.”