Backstroker Austin Chu Verbally Commits to UNC Tar Heels for 2028
NEW COMMIT: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has opened its Class of 2028 recruiting with a verbal pledge from Saint Louis, Mo. native Austin Chu. Chu is a Junior National qualifier who specializes in backstroke.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am incredibly honored to announce my verbal commitment to continue my athletic and academic career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. I would like to thank my friends, family, and coaches who have all believed in me, and pushed me to achieve my goals. I would like to also thank Coach Mark, Coach Gideon, and all of the UNC Coach staff for giving me this opportunity. GO HEELS!”
Chu, who does his club swimming with CSP Tideriders, most recently competed at NCSA Summer Championships where he placed fourth in the 100m back and fifth in the 200m back. Last winter, he finished eighth in the 200 back and 20th in the 100 back at Juniors West before earning six best times and recording six finals appearances at Columbia Speedo Sectionals, highlighted by bronze in the 200 back.
He is one of the fastest backstrokers in the Class of 2028.
His best times include:
- 50 back – 22.32
- 100 back – 47.77
- 200 back – 1:44.47
- 200 IM – 1:50.79
Currently a junior at Clayton High School, Chu won the 100 back and the 200 IM at the 2024 Missouri Class 1 State Championships during his freshman year.
The Tar Heels placed eighth at the 2026 Atlantic Coast Conference Championships.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
