Girls Swim/Dive: Lauren McGrath commits to Minnesota

Penn Girls Swimmer Lauren McGrath (Class of 2027) will continue her academic and athletic careers at the University of Minnesota. McGrath anchored Penn’s 200 medley relay team that placed fifth at State in 2025. She was sixth in the state in the 200 individual medley.

“I really liked the team environment and the urban-style campus,” McGrath said of committing to Minnesota. “The whole atmosphere of the school was exactly what I was looking for.”

McGrath said that Penn’s Swim/Dive program has helped her develop her talents, and she appreciates the culture of the program.

“Team atmosphere has always been a huge motivator for me … how everyone is always in a good mindset and ready to race,” McGrath said. “And the coaches always motivate me every day to do my best and put in my full effort.”

Penn head coach John Vandriessche said that McGrath has a great mental toughness in addition to her swim talents.

“Lauren’s confidence has always been one of her strengths that sets her up for success,” Vandriessche said. “She never backs down from a challenge and faces things head-on. This mentality sets her up to compete at the next level and whatever challenges come her way.”