The University of Wisconsin is graduating one Australian this year, All-American Daniel Lester, but head coach Whitney Hite has started building his own recruiting ties in Australia, and has signed Sean Maloney to a National Letter of Intent today.
Maloney is a middle-distance freestyler who was a member of the Australian squad that competed at the 2012 Jr. Pan Pac Championships in Hawaii. There, the 17-year old advanced to the B-Final and placed 13th in the 400 long course meter freestyle in 3:58.75.
His best long course times, from 100 to 400 meters, are 52.08, 1:52.72, and 3:57.56, respectively. Having not hit a full taper yet in 2013, he’s still already gone a best time in January in that 200 free.
“I am very excited to attend such a well-regarded university that provides an amazing academic environment along with a swimming program that is rapidly on the rise,” Maloney said of his decision. “To be a part of such a strong incoming class is a great opportunity.”
The class that he alluded to is indeed impressive, including two big signings from the state of Texas. Hite has already grabbed commitments from 2013 Texas 5A State Champion Cannon Clifton, who was 44.09 in the 100 yard free, and his fellow Houstonian Brett Pinfold, who is a 44.10 in the 100 yard free. Hite has also secured the services of in-stater Alex Delakis, who is a 54.5 and 2:02.4 in the 100 and 200 yard breaststrokes.
And don’t forget Nicholas Caldwell, former Gator.
Wisconsin also signed Nicholas Schafer this year, Junior Pan Pacs member from 2010.
Delakis actually went a 54.5 in the 100 breast at Wisconsin High School State
UWfan – right you are. Updated above.