Kentucky swimming and diving freshman Lydia Hanlon has been named the SEC Women’s Freshman of the Week, the conference announced on Tuesday. Hanlon played a crucial role in Kentucky’s 168-132 dual meet victory over No. 6 Louisville on Saturday, earning 14 points for the team while swimming personal best times in both the 100 and 200 backstroke.
The Tallahassee, Fla. native took first in the 200 backstroke with a time of 1:52.16, the 10th best time in the country this season. Hanlon also finished second in the 100 backstroke (52.76) and swam the third leg on the third-place finishing 400 free relay for UK. Both Hanlon’s 100 and 200 backstroke times rank seventh all-time in Kentucky program history.
Hanlon is the second Kentucky freshman to earn Freshman of the Week honors from the SEC this season. She joins Levi Sandidge who won the award on the men’s side back on Oct. 11.
Hanlon’s impressive performance at the dual meet against Louisville is a sign of great things to come for the freshman. Her dedication and hard work have paid off and she has made a big impact on the team already. With her talent and determination, Hanlon is sure to have a successful career at Kentucky.
The Kentucky swimming and diving team will look to continue their success as they head into their next meet. With Hanlon leading the way, the team is poised for a strong finish to the season.