Katie Grimes commits to UVA for NCAA 2024-2025 season

Katie Grimes, a prominent young swimmer from Las Vegas, has committed to the University of Virginia for the NCAA 2024-2025 season. At just 15 years old, she showcased her talent by finishing second to Katie Ledecky in the 800 freestyle at the 2021 Olympic Trials and later competed in the Tokyo Olympics, where she placed fourth in the same event. Grimes made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics by being the first woman in U.S. history to compete in both pool and open water events during the same Games, earning a silver medal in the 400 IM and finishing tenth in the 1500 freestyle. Her commitment to UVA comes at a time when the university's women's swimming team is experiencing significant success, having won four consecutive NCAA Championship titles since 2021. The Cavaliers scored 527.5 points last season, outpacing Texas, which finished with 441 points. This achievement places UVA among the elite programs in NCAA swimming history, marking the first time since 1996 that a team has secured four consecutive titles. Todd DeSorbo, UVA's head coach, has also been appointed as the head coach for the U.S. women's swimming team for the upcoming Olympics, further solidifying the program's reputation. Grimes expressed gratitude for the support she has received from her family, friends, and the UVA team, indicating a promising future as she joins a successful program.