Junior National Finalist Justin Shi Pledges 2028 Verbal to Stanford
NEW COMMIT: Stanford University has gained another verbal commitment for Fall 2028, this time from Justin Shi of Ellicott City, Md. Shi, who is among the top recruits in this class, is a versatile Summer Nationals qualifier.
He will join William Canori on The Farm as a member of the Cardinal’s Class of 2032.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am absolutely honored and thrilled to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Stanford University! First, I want to thank my parents for their endless love, sacrifices, and unwavering support, as well as my friends and teammates for always encouraging me through this journey.
I also want to extend a massive thank you to Coach Ward, Coach Reed, Coach Zach, and all my past coaches for believing in my potential, pushing my limits, and shaping me into the athlete and person that I am today. Finally, thank you to Coach Dan, Coach Mike, and Coach Alec for giving me this incredible opportunity of a lifetime. I can’t wait for what’s next! GO CARD!!”
Shi does his club swimming with Eagle Swim Team and most recently placed 23rd at Summer Nationals after winning that event at NCSA Summer Championships, where he also took second in the 400m IM and ninth in the 200m fly.
Last winter, Shi took 18th in the 400 IM and 20th in the 200 fly at Juniors East before going on to garner four top-4 finishes at Maryland Short Course Seniors, highlighted by a win in the 100 fly. He then won the 100m fly, 200m back, 200m IM and 400m IM at Buffalo Speedo Sectionals.
His best times include:
- 100 fly – 47.89
- 200 fly – 1:45.72
- 100 back – 49.89
- 200 back – 1:47.84
- 200 IM – 1:47.82
- 400 IM – 3:50.36
- 100 free – 45.18
- 200 free – 1:37.57
- 200 breast – 2:01.63
Currently a junior at McDonogh School, Shi won the 100 fly and 200 IM at the 2026 Maryland A State Championships. He is a USA Swimming Scholastic All-American.
Stanford finished second at the 2026 Atlantic Coast Conference Championships and 10th at the 2026 NCAA Championships. The Cardinal has won eight NCAA titles in program history.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
