NEW COMMIT: The NC State Wolfpack have been on a roll with their recruiting game for the class of 2025, earning their second verbal commitment from Aiden Hayes. The Norman, Okla. native – arguably one of the most sought-out recruits in his class – will join Arsenio Bustos in Raleigh at the start of the 2021-22 season.
An all-around sprinter, Hayes swims year-round with Sooner Swim Club and has already achieved the Olympic Trials cut in the 100m fly. He earned silver in the 100m fly at Junior Nationals after winning the 50m fly and 200m fly at Jenks Sectionals this past summer. Last winter, he finished second in the 100 fly and third in the 200 fly at Juniors West. He also won the 100 back and 200 IM at Oklahoma Seniors before going on to earn five gold medals at Columbia Sectionals.
A current junior at Norman North High School, Hayes has earned both NISCA and USA Swimming Scholastic All-American honors. He won the 50 free and 100 back as a sophomore while also being a part of two record-setting relays. In 2019, he took down David Plummer’s record in the 100 back.
He told Swimming World:
“Super excited to announce my verbal commitment to further my athletic and academic career at NC State! Go pack!!
His best times include:
- 50 fly – 21.65
- 100 fly – 46.64
- 200 fly – 1:47.01
- 50 free – 19.73
- 100 free – 45.15
- 50 back – 21.23
- 100 back – 47.26
Hayes will make an immediate impact when he suits up for the Wolfpack at the start of the 2021-22 season both individually and on relays. Even with just under two years of club swimming still to go, his best times are already approaching scoring range in numerous events and he has made major improvements each season. He already would’ve scored in the B-final of the 100 fly at the 2019 ACC Championships where NC State earned their fifth-straight conference title.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
Great job Braden!!!