Michigan Picks Up Another Verbal For 2028 From Backstroker Julia Lucca
NEW COMMIT: Smithtown, New York native Julia Lucca has announced her verbal commitment to the University of Michigan beginning in Fall 2028. Lucca is a Summer Nationals qualifier who specializes in backstroke.
She will join Una Diaz, Bobbi Simmons, Yari Brock, Elsa Anderson and Feagin Kaminski in Ann Arbor as a member of the Wolverines’ Class of 2032.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I am SO beyond excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my athletic and academic career at the University of Michigan! I’d like to thank my family, friends, and coaches for their support and for always pushing me to be my best . Special thanks to Coach Matt, Coach Aaron, and the rest of the Michigan staff for providing me with this opportunity. Can’t wait for what’s to come! Go Blue”
Lucca, who does her club swimming with Long Island Aquatic Club, placed 12th in the 50m back and 23rd in the 200m back at Junior Nationals this past summer. She took 24th in the 100m back at Summer Nationals the week prior.
Last winter, Lucca had a trio of top-10 finishes at the NCAP Katie Ledecky Invitational, highlighted by a fourth-place showing in the 100 back. She then won the B-finals of the 50 back and 100 back at NCSA Spring Championships.
Her best times include:
- 50 back – 25.10
- 100 back – 53.44
- 200 back – 1:57.82
Currently a junior at Hauppauge-Smithtown High School, Lucca won the 100 back and placed fifth in the 50 free at the 2025 New York State Championships. She took third and second, respectively, in those events at the state meet as a freshman in 2024.
Michigan won the 2026 Big Ten Championships, its first conference title since 2018 and its 18th conference crown all-time. The Wolverines then finished sixth at the 2026 NCAA Championships.
Lucca would’ve scored in the C-final of the 100 back and 200 back at last year’s conference meet.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
