Top Backstroke Talent Andy Baklanov (2025) Joins SMU in Game-Changing Commitment…Read More…
In a move that’s generating ripples across the collegiate swimming scene, standout backstroker Andy Baklanov — one of the most highly regarded swimmers still on the market — has officially committed to Southern Methodist University (SMU) for the 2025-26 season. The decision marks a significant recruiting victory for the Mustangs and underscores their intent to rise as a national force in NCAA Division I swimming.
Baklanov, a member of the high school class of 2025, has built a strong reputation as a “best of the rest” contender in the backstroke events. Though perhaps not at the very top of national rankings, his steady progression, fierce racing attitude, and untapped potential have made him a prized recruit for programs seeking to deepen their rosters with athletes capable of making an immediate impact.
Coming off an impressive junior campaign marked by personal bests and strong championship performances, Baklanov’s commitment signals a critical piece of SMU’s strategic recruitment puzzle. Under head coach Greg Rhodenbaugh, the Mustangs have consistently attracted top-level talent, blending established stars with emerging prospects like Baklanov, who embody the program’s culture of hard work, resilience, and competitive excellence.
Rising Star with Proven Credentials
Hailing from Washington state, Baklanov has showcased his versatility across both sprint and middle-distance backstroke races. His personal bests include a swift 48.95 in the 100-yard backstroke and a strong 1:47.80 in the 200-yard backstroke — times that not only reflect his technical skill but also his capacity for further improvement in a collegiate environment.
At key junior meets such as the Speedo Sectionals and USA Swimming Futures Championships, Baklanov consistently advanced to finals, holding his own against older and more decorated competitors. His technique in the backstroke — especially his underwaters and breakout speed — has been praised by coaches and analysts alike.
What separates Baklanov from other recruits in his tier is his rapid year-over-year improvement curve. From dropping nearly two seconds in his 100-yard backstroke over the past year to refining his turn mechanics, Baklanov has demonstrated that he’s far from peaking, a factor that made him especially attractive to SMU’s coaching staff.
Why SMU?
In his official statement, Baklanov shared his excitement about joining the Mustang family, highlighting SMU’s blend of strong academics, a supportive team culture, and a coaching staff he believes will push him to new heights.
“From the moment I connected with Coach Rhodenbaugh and the team, I knew SMU was the right place for me,” Baklanov said. “The environment here is special — there’s a real sense of community and a drive to succeed, both in the pool and in life. I’m excited to be part of that journey.”
For SMU, securing Baklanov aligns with the university’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its swimming program within the American Athletic Conference and on the national stage. The Mustangs have been a perennial power in their conference, and with the expansion of the NCAA Championships field, adding a swimmer like Baklanov boosts their chances of scoring critical points in backstroke events and medley relays.
The Coach’s Perspective
Head coach Greg Rhodenbaugh, known for his expertise in stroke development and individualized training, expressed his enthusiasm for Baklanov’s addition to the team.
“Andy is a swimmer with tremendous upside. He has the work ethic, the technical foundation, and the competitive spirit we look for in our athletes,” Rhodenbaugh said. “We’re excited to help him grow and see him make an impact at the collegiate level. He’s a perfect fit for the culture we’re building at SMU.”
Rhodenbaugh’s track record of developing NCAA qualifiers and even Olympic-level swimmers makes SMU a promising destination for swimmers looking to maximize their potential, and Baklanov’s commitment only reinforces that reputation.
Looking Ahead
With Baklanov now in the fold, SMU’s 2025 recruiting class is shaping up as one of the strongest in recent years. While the program continues to target high-profile recruits across multiple events, the addition of a strong backstroker like Baklanov strengthens the team’s depth chart for dual meets, conference championships, and national competition.
For Baklanov, the road ahead includes a final high school season where he’ll look to cap off his prep career with state titles and further time drops. His transition to SMU promises to be a pivotal chapter in his swimming journey — one that could see him emerge not just as a conference standout but potentially as a national contender.
A Commitment That Resonates
In the competitive world of collegiate swimming, every commitment sends a message. With Andy Baklanov’s pledge to SMU, that message is clear: the Mustangs are building a roster that blends talent, potential, and ambition. And for Baklanov, it’s the start of a new chapter with a program poised to make serious waves in the seasons ahead.
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