Imagine braving one of the harshest winters New York City has seen in years, only to dive into a record-breaking swim meet hundreds of miles away. That’s exactly what 17-year-old Liam Mac Colla did, and he didn’t just survive—he thrived. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this young swimmer’s performance hint at a future college record being shattered before he even steps on campus?
At the 2026 January Jumpstart held from January 16-19, 2026, at the Greensboro Aquatic Center in North Carolina, Mac Colla, representing the 92nd Street Y Flying Dolphins in Manhattan, made waves in the Short Course Yards (25 yards) competition. The meet results, available here, showcase his remarkable achievement: a 20.01-second finish in the 50-yard freestyle, securing him second place and a new Metro Swimming LSC Record. This time not only eclipsed Justin Plaschka’s 2014 record of 20.08 but also dipped under Villanova University’s current school record of 20.10, set by Zach Sutter at the Big Easts. And this is the part most people miss: Mac Colla initially committed to D3 Williams College before switching to Villanova, a decision that now looks even more impactful.
The race itself was a showdown of future college stars. Mac Colla trailed only Albert Smelzer of the Greensboro Swimming Association, who touched the wall in 19.87 seconds. Smelzer, the #7 recruit in the high school class of 2026, is headed to Cal, and his dominance at the meet was undeniable—he claimed 9 wins across individual and relay events, including the 50 free, 100 free, and 200 free. But Mac Colla’s performance was equally impressive, as he clocked lifetime bests in nearly every event he entered: the 50 free (20.01), 100 free (44.47), 500 free (4:47.75), 50 back (23.77), 100 back (51.53), 50 breast (27.51), 50 fly (22.52), 100 fly (50.35), and 100 IM (53.12).
Here’s a thought-provoking question: With Mac Colla already swimming faster than Villanova’s current record holders, is he poised to redefine the program’s standards before his freshman year even begins? Or will the pressure of expectations weigh on this rising star?
The meet wasn’t just about the boys. On the girls’ side, Kaidy Stout of the Greensboro Swimming Association stole the spotlight with sweeps in the 100 breaststroke (1:02.14), 200 breaststroke (2:11.98), 200 IM (2:05.73), and 400 IM (4:22.99). Meanwhile, Ellie Mierenfeld, a James Madison commit, delivered a jaw-dropping performance in the 200 backstroke, slicing nearly two seconds off her personal best with a time of 1:57.32. This swim not only would’ve topped James Madison’s roster this season but also ranks her 2nd all-time in JMU history. Controversial take: Could Mierenfeld’s rapid improvement signal a shift in the collegiate swimming landscape for her program?
As we reflect on these achievements, it’s clear that the January Jumpstart was more than just a meet—it was a glimpse into the future of swimming. What do you think? Is Mac Colla destined for greatness, or is it too early to crown him a record-breaker? Let us know in the comments below!
About the Author:
Braden Keith, Editor-in-Chief and co-founder of SwimSwam.com, has been a leading voice in the swimming world since launching The Swimmers' Circle in 2010. His expertise and passion continue to shape the sport’s narrative. Learn more about Braden Keith.
