NEW COMMIT: The University of Massachusetts, Amherst has received a new verbal commitment for the 2020-21 season and beyond from Maggie Desmond of Colchester, Vt.
A talented sprint freestyler and breaststroker, Desmond does her club swimming with the Burlington YMCA Dynamos under head coach Jacsen Callanan. She has competed at YMCA Nationals the past two seasons, most recently recording at best time in the 50 free in April. At the New England 15-18 Age Group Championships in March, Desmond recorded a trio of lifetime bests and placed fourth in the 50 free before going on to final in that event at Ithaca Speedo Sectionals.
This past summer, Desmond earned three gold medals at the Champlain Valley Swim League Championships. At the Vermont State Championships in August, she set a state record in the 50 free where she also won the 100 free and 100 breast. Desmond has consistently made improvements each year; over the past three seasons, she has dropped two seconds in the 50 free, three seconds in the 100 free, and seven seconds in the 100 breast.
She told Swimming World:
“I am so excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and swimming career at the University of Massachusetts Amherst!! Endless thank you’s to my family and friends for supporting me along the way! #gominutemen”
Her best times include:
- 50 free – 23.95
- 100 free – 52.95
- 100 breast – 1:06.48
Desmond will become a valuable asset both individually and on relays when she arrives on campus as a member of the class of 2024. She’ll join a training group led by Mariam Labib and Emily Rudiman, adding even more depth to the Minutemen’s lineup.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
Maggie Desmond