Hokie ClubCOLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – AJ Pouch has been named to the U.S. National Team, USA Swimming announced on Wednesday.
"Being named to the U.S. National team is something I've dreamed of since I started swimming. To be able to wear the cap with my flag and my name is every swimmer's dream and my dream finally came true. Not only does it mean I'm among the top swimmers in the country but also the world, and all I want is to keep this momentum going, especially as a Hokie," Pouch said.
"This dream would not have been possible without the support I get from Virginia Tech and everyone involved in Hokies Swim & Dive! I can't wait to start repping the best country in the world as a Hokie! Go USA! Go Hokies!"
Athletes named to the 2022-2023 National Team will be on the National Team from September 7, 2022 - September 8, 2023.
The six athletes with the fastest times in each Individual Olympic Event, from the combined results of (i) a USA Swimming sanctioned competition, (ii) a FINA approved competition, or (iii) an international competition between January 1, 2022 through August 31, 2022, to which USA Swimming sent a team all USA Swimming or FINA sanctioned competitions, were named to the roster.
This summer, Pouch swam the 200 breaststroke in 2:09.07 at the U.S. Summer Nationals, the fifth-fastest time in the United States this year and the 14th-fastest all-time in the U.S. His time placed him fourth at the National Championships.
"I am very happy for AJ making the U.S. National Team in the 200 breaststroke and for being one of the top breaststrokers in the country, and in the world. It speaks volumes on the hard work and dedication that he has for his swimming and for the Hokies Swim & Dive team," head coach Sergio Lopez Miro said.
"It's also a great indication for him that he is in a good position to keep fighting for the next couple years to try to make the Olympic Team and go to Paris to represent the United States in 2024. Congratulations, AJ. We're proud of you and Go Hokies."
Pouch earned Honorable Mention All-American honors in 2022 in the 100 and 200 breaststroke after finishing 11th in the 200 breast (1:51.72) and 15th in the 100 breast (51.87). At ACC's, Pouch placed 3rd in the 400-medley relay (3:02.71) and 5th in the 200 breast (1:53.01).
A year ago, Pouch placed fifth in the 200 breaststroke at the U.S. Olympic Trials. He has also been a member of the National Junior Team from 2018-19.