University of Wisconsin swimming and diving head coach Whitney Hite announced Monday that Cierra Runge has officially signed on to join the program and begin competing for the Badgers in 2016-17.
Runge joins the Badgers after spending her freshman year at the University of California-Berkeley, where she broke the NCAA record in the 500-yard freestyle. Runge was also a member of Cal’s NCAA and American record breaking 800-yard freestyle relay team.
The 2015 NCAA runner-up in both the 500- and 1650-yard freestyle events, Runge boasts experience competing on the world stage. The Cochranville, Pennsylvania, native is a member of the USA National Team and competed at the 2015 World Championships. She also earned a silver medal in the 400-meter freestyle at the 2014 Pan Pacific Championships.
Runge currently trains with North Baltimore Aquatic Club.
“It’s one thing to get a freshman recruit with the caliber of Beata Nelson, then it’s another to get Cierra,” Hite said. “That’s a one-two punch right there. Cierra is elite. Anytime you get an American record holder coming in the door and someone who has competed at the very highest level, she transforms this program. Walking in the door, she’s got the potential to break the 200-yard freestyle record, 500-yard freestyle record and mile record. She’s versatile enough that she can help us on relays, too.
“The addition of Cierra puts us in a position to do things with the women’s team that have never been done in the program’s history.”
