Will Modglin Emerging as Backstroke Star Team USA is Seeking
Coming out of Zionsville High School in Indiana, Will Modglin was one of the top recruits in the country. And in two years at the University of Texas, he has proven himself a valuable contributor for the Longhorns, especially as the program captured its 16th NCAA title last March.
Over the weekend, Modglin took a major step at the international level, as he won the silver medal in the 100-meter backstroke at the World University Games in Berlin. While South Africa’s Pieter Coetze set a championship record of 51.99, Modglin clocked a time of 52.54, making him the eighth-fastest American in the history of the event.
The fifth-place finisher in the 100 backstroke at last month’s United States National Championships in 53.83, Modglin was more than a second quicker at the World University Games. More, he made his breakthrough at a critical juncture for Team USA. While the American women are stacked with talent, the U.S. men find themselves in a transition period, needing to rebuild the power they have known for decades.
Particularly in the backstroke, there are questions for the United States. Future Hall of Famer Ryan Murphy is taking a break from the sport. Additionally, no one was sub-53 at Nationals, a concern given the speed that has been flashed around the world. Modglin has provided hope, along with North Carolina State’s Daniel Diehl, who was the bronze medalist at WUGs in 52.94.
During his first two years of college, Modglin has been guided by a pair of Hall of Fame coaches – Eddie Reese and Bob Bowman. He’s also been surrounded by training partners who have pushed him to the next level, including Hungarian Olympic champion Hubert Kos.
With his 52-mid performance, Modglin is in position to qualify for next summer’s Pan Pacific Championships at the William Woollett Aquatic Center in Irvine, California. If Modglin is selected, Pan Pacs will provide further international experience.
In the meantime, Modglin’s efforts and upside are a needed positive for USA Swimming.
