NEW COMMIT: U.S. Open qualifier Sydney DeBaecke of Hockessin, Del. has announced her intention to continue her academic and swimming career at Virginia Tech beginning in the fall of 2022.
She will arrive in Blacksburg as a member of the Hokies’ Class of 2026 along with Emily Claesson, Caroline Foltz, Isabel Marstellar and Carmen Weiler.
She told Swimming World:
“I am thrilled to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Virginia Tech! Thank you to my coaches, family, and friends for helping me along the way! I can’t wait to be a Hokie! #GoHokies”
A talented backstroker, DeBaecke does her club swimming with the Suburban Seahawks Club and most recently raced to 10th in the 200m back at the TYR 18&U Spring Cup in Richmond after winning that event at the Middle Atlantic Championships.
She was also the 200 back runner-up at the 18&U Winter Championships – Carlisle after notching two lifetime bests at the Toyota U.S. Open.
Her best times include:
- 50 back – 26.67
- 100 back – 55.78
- 200 back – 1:57.92
- 200 IM – 2:03.83
- 400 IM – 4:25.44
A rising senior at Tower Hill School, DeBaecke is a six-time Delaware State Championship finalist. She won the 200 IM and was the 100 back runner-up as a junior while taking second and first, respectively, in those events during her sophomore season.
DeBaecke would’ve ranked No. 5 in the 200 back on the Hokies’ lineup last year and will surely see more time drops this upcoming season. Under head coach Sergio Lopez, Virginia Tech finished fourth in the team standings at the 2021 ACC Championships.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
