Prep swimming: Gulf Coast's Elliott signs with South Carolina
NAPLES — Four Gulf Coast High School athletes made their college pledges official on Thursday in the school’s media center. The group, which included football players Brandon Bolock (University of Chicago), Stephen Ritter (Elmhurst) and soccer player Kristine Ma (University of Chicago) was highlighted by swimmer Rachel Elliot, who signed a letter-of-intent with the University of South Carolina.
“After winter break I took a visit and when I was on campus it just felt like the right spot for me,” said Elliott, who also considered Ohio State. “It’s a campus town and small but not too small, it just had the right feel.”
Elliott, who won the Class 2A state championship in the 50-yard freestyle last fall, said she the opportunity to swim as a freshman also played a role in her decision to pick the Gamecocks.
“I’m going to be able to swim as a freshman and that’s important to me because I’ve been competing ever since I was four years old,” Elliott said.
With the decision behind her and her letter official faxed, Elliott will turn her attention to the 2011 Junior National Championships. The competition will be held in August, right before Elliott heads to school.
“When I finally signed today I was like, ‘whew, that’s a relief,’” Elliott said. “Now I can focus on my club season and training and get ready for nationals.”
