Fitter and Faster Swim Camps is the proud sponsor of SwimSwam’s College Recruiting Channel and all commitment news. For many, swimming in college is a lifelong dream that is pursued with dedication and determination. Fitter and Faster is proud to honor these athletes and those who supported them on their journey.
Freestyle specialist Austin Mondello of Rogers, AR has announced his decision to swim for the Colorado Mesa University Mavericks beginning in the fall of 2020. Mondello is a second-generation swimmer: his father — Anthony Mondello — swam at the collegiate level for Texas A&M.
Austin shared his excitement by stating, “I am super stoked to announce my verbal commitment to continue my swim career at Colorado Mesa University. Thank you to my family, friends, and coaches for helping through this process. Go Mavs!”
Mondello has been a team captain for Northwest Arkansas Aquatics for 3 years. In January Mondello joined his team at the Arkansas Senior State Short Course Championships. In his first individual event, Mondello earned the bronze medal in the 500 free (4:44.76) and dropped 3.59 seconds from his time. He tried to come from behind to out-touch Nicholas Heye, but came up short. He came home in a 55:69, only 0.03 seconds slower than his first 100. He placed 4th in the 200 free (1:44.59), dropping 1.76 seconds. He earned the silver medal in both the 200 fly and the 1650 free on the final day of competition. He also swam the 100 fly and some relays for Northwest Arkansas.
During his senior season, Mondello also served as captain for Bentonville High School. In February he competed at the Arkansas 6A State Championships, 2 weeks after having won 3 gold and 1 bronze medal at his conference meet. He placed 4th in the 200 free (1:43.83), dropping 3.25 seconds from his entry time to earn a best time. He later earned the bronze medal in the 500 free, dropping 10 seconds from his entry time. Mondello anchored Bentonville’s 200 free relay. Caleb Tong, Brigham Hill, and Nile Hanna were also a part bronze medal relay. Bentonville ended the meet by dominating the 400 free relay. Ryan Husband led off the relay, followed by Mondello, Jake Noble, and Gavin Husband. The men touched the wall 8.4 seconds ahead of Conway High School. Bentonville finished the meet in third place, only 7 points behind Central High School.
Top SCY Times:
- 200 fly – 1:56.44
- 1650 free – 16:30.92
- 200 free – 1:43.83
- 500 free – 4:44.51
- 1000 free – 9:58.21
- 400 IM – 4:16.60
Mondello will be joining the 2020 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Champions. His top times would have placed him in multiple finals at the 2020 meet, which could help the team extend their lead at future conference meets. His 1650 free time would have placed him 6th overall, only a half second off 5th place. He would have been 7th in the 1000 free as well as in the 500 free. Mondello will be joining the Mavericks as a member of the class of 2024.
If you have a commitment to report, please send an email with a photo (landscape, or horizontal, looks best) and a quote to [email protected].
About the Fitter and Faster Swim Tour
Fitter & Faster Swim Camps feature the most innovative teaching platforms for competitive swimmers of all levels. Camps are produced year-round throughout the USA and Canada. All camps are led by elite swimmers and coaches. Visit fitterandfaster.com to find or request a swim camp near you.
Instagram – @fitterandfasterswimtour
Facebook – @fitterandfastertour
Twitter – @fitterandfaster
FFT is a SwimSwam partner.
