NEW COMMIT: The University of St. Thomas has received a new commitment for the 2021-22 season and beyond from Kiara Bissen of Madison, Wis.
She will join Elizabeth Bonneville and Ashley Plantenberg as a member of the Tommies’ Class of 2025.
She told Swimming World:
“I am VERY excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at the University of St. Thomas!! Thank you to my family, friends, and coaches who have supported me and helped me become the person I am today! Go Tommies!”
Bissen, who trains year-round with Badger Aquatic Club, last competed at the Wisconsin 13&O Championships where she finaled in the 50 free. Last December, she was the runner-up in both the 100 back and the 50 free at the BAC Holiday Splash and raced three events at Minneapolis Sectionals in Summer 2019.
Photo Courtesy: Kiara Bissen
Her best times include:
- 50 free – 24.33
- 100 free – 53.09
- 200 free – 1:58.25
- 100 breast – 1:05.91
- 200 breast – 2:27.95
Also competing for Madison Memorial High School, Bissen has competed at the Wisconsin DI State Championships the last three seasons. At the WIAA DI Sectional meet as a junior, she sprinted to ninth place in the 50 free.
Bissen marks one of the first Tommies’ commitments as they become the only program in recent NCAA history to transition directly from DIII to DI. Under head coach Scott Blanchard, St. Thomas has won four Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championships and will join the Summit League next year.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
