Minnesota Picks Up Backstroker/Butterflier Garner Kohrell

Wisconsin native and Fox Valley Waves Swim Team member Garner Kohrell has committed to swim for the University of Minnesota starting in the 2016-17 season.

Kohrell is best in the butterfly and backstroke, and is also a solid mid-distance freestyler. A look at his best times below, and notice his steep progression over the last few seasons (LCM in parentheses):

2013 2014 2015
100y back  –  54.62 (1:02.96)  51.36 (59.60)
100y fly  55.03  52.13 (58.79)  49.99 (56.27)
200y fly  2:03.81  1:53.55 (2:08.40)  1:49.52 (2:05.52)
200y free  – 1:44.71 (2:02.21)  1:41.18 (1:55.24)

With the rate of improvement that Kohrell’s making, he could develop into a very valuable commitment right as he gets to Minnesota. A possible sign for the future is the 56.27 100 meter fly he swam this summer, which is a Summer Juniors cut, which looks pretty good compared to his 100 yard fly best, which is only an Winter Juniors standard.

Last season, other than now-junior Daryl Turner, no Minnesota butterfliers broke 49 seconds. Turner led the pack with his 46.52, but the next-best swimmer was Ben Bravence (49.08). Kohrell would also clock in at 5th on the Gophers top times list in the 200 fly last season.

“Minnesota felt like home the moment I stepped on campus. The coaches and swimmers were awesome to be around.  Everyone got along and worked really well together on the team; making for a phenomenal atmosphere. I feel that I will not only grow as a swimmer, but as a person too.  The academics there are also a fantastic fit, and I think they will help set me up for a great and well rounded future.  I’m extremely excited to be a Gopher!”

Kohrell finished 3rd in both the 100 fly and 100 back at last year’s Wisconsin HS Div. 1 Champs, and swam on both of his HS team’s (Appleton North) top-6 relays, the 200 medley and the 400 free.

If you have a commitment to report, please send an email to [email protected]

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wiscoswimma
8 years ago

thank the lord he didn’t go to madison, that program is going downhill

GarnerFan
8 years ago

It’s been fun to watch Garner’s talent develop over the years. He is a great young man and will be a huge asset for the Gophers. Congratulations!

Joe Brandt
8 years ago

Way to Go, Garner, Wow Congratulations very happy for you.

Delores Boettcher
8 years ago

Very happy for you and so proud of you. Wishing you success and the best of luck as you continue your education Keep swimming.

WiscoSwimFan
8 years ago

Congrats Garner and great pick up for the Gophers!

About Karl Ortegon

Karl Ortegon

Karl Ortegon studied sociology at Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT, graduating in May of 2018. He began swimming on a club team in first grade and swam four years for Wesleyan.

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