NEW COMMIT: The University of Illinois has earned a new in-state verbal commitment for the 2020-21 season and beyond from Aurora, Ill. native and current high school junior Laurel Bludgen.
Primarily a sprint freestyler, Bludgen swims year-round with Maverick Swim Club and most recently competed at NCSAs where she recorded a trio of best times. This past summer, she earned 100% lifetime bests at Illinois Seniors before racing four events at Iowa City Speedo Sectionals. Also representing Metea Valley High School, Bludgen has raced at the Illinois State Championships each of her three high school seasons so far.
She told Swimming World:
“I am so excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and swimming career at the University of Illinois. Thank you to all of my family, friends, and coaches for always supporting me! Go Illini!!”
Her best times include:
- 50 free – 24.06
- 100 free – 51.84
- 200 free – 1:53.48
- 500 free – 5:14.82
Bludgen will add valuable sprint depth to the Illini’s lineup when she arrives on campus in the fall of 2020 and will be an asset to their relays. Although she’s not in scoring range just yet at the Big Ten Championships, she has continuously made improvements each season with over a year to go before suiting up for Illinois.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
