By Madeline Folsom on SwimSwam
Fitter and Faster Swim Camps is the proud sponsor of SwimSwam’s College Recruiting Channel and all commitment news. For many, swimming in college is a lifelong dream that is pursued with dedication and determination. Fitter and Faster is proud to honor these athletes and those who supported them on their journey.
Sam Cavanaugh, a Pennsylvania State Qualifier, has verbally committed to continue his swimming career at Bucknell University for the class of 2026.
“I am extremely excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Bucknell University. I would like to thank my family, friends, and coaches for all the support in and out of the pool. I also want to thank Coach Dan for this opportunity! Go Bison!”
Cavanaugh is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he swims for Northgate Junior–Senior High School. At last year’s PIAA 2A State Championships in March, Cavanaugh finished 2nd in the 500 free (4:34.52) and 2nd in the 200 IM (1:50.61), setting new personal best times in both.
Later that month, he swam at the ISCA International Senior Cup for his club team, Team Pittsburgh Elite Aquatics. There, he set new personal best times in the 200 free (1:44.01), 1000 free (8:41.21), 1650 free (16:18.97), 100 breast (59.31), and 200 breast (2:05.66)
Cavanaugh’s Lifetime Best Times SCY
- 500 free- 4:34.52
- 1650 free- 16:18.97
- 200 fly- 1:54.62
- 200 IM- 1:50.61
- 400 IM- 4:01.03
A member of the Patriot League, a Division I mid-major conference, the Bucknell men finished 4th at last year’s conference meet. The Bison brought in 952.5 points to come in around 250 points behind the Loyola teams 1213 for 3rd overall.
Cavanaugh will be crucial in adding depth to a Bucknell team that loses a lot of their top swimmers in the coming year, and he will make the most impact in the IM events. Last season, he would have been 4th in the 200 IM and only one of the athletes ahead of him will still be on the team when he arrives next fall.
He should also be in the top four in the 500 free, 1650 free, 200 fly, and 400 IM based on his times from last season and the athletes who have graduated or will graduate before next year.
Cavanaugh will also come into the team as a potential ‘C’ finals scorer in the 500 free, 1650 free, 200 IM, and 400 IM events.
If you have a commitment to report, please send an email with a photo (landscape, or horizontal, looks best) and a quote to Recruits@swimswam.com.
About the Fitter and Faster Swim Tour
Fitter & Faster Swim Camps feature the most innovative teaching platforms for competitive swimmers of all levels. Camps are produced year-round throughout the USA and Canada. All camps are led by elite swimmers and coaches. Visit fitterandfaster.com to find or request a swim camp near you.
FFT SOCIAL
Instagram – @fitterandfasterswimtour
Facebook – @fitterandfastertour
Twitter – @fitterandfaster
FFT is a SwimSwam partner.
Read the full story on SwimSwam: Pennsylvania State Qualifier Sam Cavanaugh Commits to Bucknell University for 2026
