Penn State Earns 2028 Verbal Pledge From Distance Ace Adam Giersch
NEW COMMIT: Penn State University has received its second public verbal commitment for its Class of 2032 from Adam Giersch of Virginia Beach, Va. Giersch is a Junior National qualifier who excels in distance freestyle.
He will join Levente Varga in State College in Fall 2028.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am extremely grateful and excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Penn State! I first want to give all the Glory to God for the countless blessings he has poured upon me throughout this process. To my parents, family, and friends who have supported me throughout the ups and downs of this sport, this opportunity would not have been possible without you. I also want to thank Coach Richard and Coach Danny who have pushed me throughout my journey, along with Coach Zmuda where it all started. Lastly I want to thank the entire Penn State Swimming and Diving staff, especially Coach Hollie, Coach Mike, and Coach Patrick for making this dream come true. WE ARE”
Giersch trains year-round with Tide Swimming and most recently finaled in two events at Greensboro Futures where he earned a pair of best times. That was two weeks after he placed fourth in the 1500m free, ninth in the 400m free and 10th in the 800m free at Virginia Long Course Seniors. He also had three top-8 finishes in the distance events at Virginia Short Course Seniors in March.
His best times include:
- 500 free – 4:27.73
- 1000 free – 9:13.92
- 1650 free – 15:35.75
Currently a junior at Cape Henry Collegiate School, Giersch earned bronze in both the 100 fly and 500 free at the 2026 VISAA Championships. He took ninth and fourth, respectively, in those events at the state meet during his freshman year in 2025.
Penn State finished ninth at the 2026 Big Ten Championships. Giersch’s best time in the 1000 free would’ve ranked third on the Nittany Lions’ roster last year, while his top mile time would’ve been fourth.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
