Amy Hempenstall to Join Washington State Swim Team

The standout swimmer will begin her collegiate career with the Cougars in the fall of 2027.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Swimming

Amy Hempenstall to Join Washington State Swim Team

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Amy Hempenstall has announced her verbal commitment to swim for the Washington State University Division I program. She is set to join the team as part of the incoming class of 2031 starting in the fall of 2027.

Why it matters

Her commitment strengthens the roster for Washington State University as the program prepares for the 2026-2027 academic year transition into the Pac 12 Conference. Hempenstall adds competitive depth to a recruiting class that includes Vanda Megyesi, Ayla Vodak, Tessa Aberle, and Rebecca Welch.

Hempenstall brings personal bests of 58.00 seconds in the 100-meter freestyle and 1:06.41 in the 100-meter backstroke. Her performance metrics also include a 27.24 second 50-meter freestyle and a 31.16 second 50-meter backstroke recorded at the Welsh Nationals.

The players

Amy Hempenstall

She is an accomplished swimmer currently representing Swim Wales and training with the Guildford City Swimming Club.

Washington State University

This is a public research university that competes as a Division I program and joined the Pac 12 Conference for the 2026-2027 academic year.

The details

Currently swimming for the Guildford City Swimming Club in England and representing Swim Wales, Hempenstall will compete in freestyle and backstroke events for the Cougars. She is one of five confirmed members joining the program alongside recruits including Vanda Megyesi, Ayla Vodak, Tessa Aberle, and Rebecca Welch.

November 2025: Competed at the GCSC Winter Open.
April 2026: Competed at the Welsh Nationals.
May 2026: Competed at Aquatics GB Championships.
July 2026: Competed at Aquatics GB Next Gen Championships.
Fall 2027: Begins swimming for Washington State University.

Season Trajectory

Hempenstall's arrival is timed to coincide with Washington State University's integration into the Pac 12 Conference for the 2026-2027 season. Her addition bolsters the team's depth, positioning the program to maintain competitive parity within its new conference alignment.

The addition of Hempenstall provides the Cougars with a versatile specialist for freestyle and backstroke events. Her entry into the lineup is expected to improve team scoring in those specific disciplines beginning in the 2027 season.

The takeaway

Future collegiate swimmers should focus on consistency in both backstroke and freestyle events to improve their recruitment prospects at the Division I level. Hempenstall's track record highlights the importance of participating in major regional championships like the Welsh Nationals to catch the eyes of coaches.