Ball State Rounds Up 2021 In-State Verbal from Juniors Qualifier Gracey Payne

Photo Courtesy: Gracey Payne

NEW COMMIT: Ball State University has received a new verbal commitment for the 2021-22 season and beyond from in-state standout Gracey Payne of Franklin, Ind.

She’ll join fellow Hoosier native Lilia Newkirk as a member of the Cardinals’ class of 2025 in Muncie.

She told Swimming World:

“I am super excited to announce my verbal commitment to Ball State University where I will continue my academic and swimming career. Ball State immediately felt like home and I’m looking forward to being a part of the Cardinal family in 2021! Thank you to Coach J and everyone that helped me through the process of making this decision. GO CARDS! Chirp Chirp!”

A talented sprinter, Payne swims year-round with Franklin Regional Swim Team and owns the Winter Juniors cut in the 50 free. She raced two events at Juniors East in 2018 and recorded a pair of lifetime bests at the 2018 Indiana LCM Senior Championships.

Her best times include:

50 free – 23.37
100 free – 51.30
200 free – 1:54.50
200 IM – 2:06.10

A current junior at Franklin Community High School, Payne is a five-time Indiana State Championship finalist. She placed ninth in both the 50 free and the 100 free in 2020 after finishing third and ninth, respectively, in those events during her sophomore season.

Ball State finished eighth at the 2020 MAC Championships and Payne would’ve scored in the B-final of the 50 free and 100 free.

If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.

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