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.
Libby Helmer has announced her verbal commitment to swim and study at the University of South Carolina in 2027.
A Nashville, Tennessee native, Helmer said this about the next chapter in her swim career:
“I am extremely excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at the University of South Carolina! I cannot be more grateful for the support of my family, friends, teammates and coaches at NAC! Thank you to Coach Jeff and the rest of the coaching staff at South Carolina for this opportunity! I know God guided me to this decision and I have faith this is where He wants me. GO COCKS 🐓❤️”
Helmer rose through the national ranks at the Nashville Aquatic Club. She’s also a student at Father Ryan High School.
In Helmer, the Gamecocks pick up a middle-distance freestyle specialist for their roster. The Tennessean is a Junior Nationals qualifier. At Summer Juniors this August, she placed 35th in the 400 free (4:22.26) and 41st in the 800 (9:04.00).
In short course, Helmer’s accolades include a high school state title in Tennessee’s independent school league. At a new personal best of 1:49.31, she was the lone swimmer under the esteemed 1:50 barrier. This marked a four-second improvement from her freshman year.
Helmer’s best times (SCY):
- 200 free – 1:49.31
- 500 free – 4:52.82
- 1650 free – 17:16.05
- 100 free – 51.83
- 200 back – 2:03.85
Following her current trajectory, Helmer should be an important contributor in Columbia. One of the Gamecocks’ recent top names in the 200 free is senior Amy Riordan, who A-finaled at SECs and placed top 40 at Olympic Trials in the event. South Carolina’s 800 free relay finished two tenths away from scoring at NCAAs in 2025, and Helmer could fill the shoes of graduating swimmers such as Riordan and Breckin Gormley.
At SECs, where the Lady Gamecocks placed 5th in 2025, a 1:46/4:45 was required to make it back in the 200 and 500 free, which is certainly in the cards for Helmer to go if she continues to improve over the next two years. Helmer joins Paige Stepanoff, Maryellen Lewis, Madeline Ryan, Emmie Lewis, Ella Cooper, and Emily Schneider in South Carolina’s Class of 2031.
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.
FFT SOCIAL
Instagram – @fitterandfasterswimtour
Facebook – @fitterandfastertour
Twitter – @fitterandfaster
FFT is a SwimSwam partner.
