The 2025 Swammy Awards: Age Group Swimmer of the Year — 11-12
A look at the top 11-12 swimmers of the year, with a focus on the controversial and the overlooked.
The Boys: Ayden Tan's Dominance
Ayden Tan, swimming for San Ramon Valley Aquatics, had an extraordinary year as an 11-12-year-old. He shattered National Age Group records, setting seven in total from June to September. His first record came in the boys' 100 IM, where he broke Michael Andrew's decade-old record. Tan's assault on the long course records continued, breaking the 200 IM, 100 free, and more. His versatility and speed were on full display, making him the clear winner of the 11-12 boys' award.
The Girls: Grace Gannon's Versatility
Grace Gannon, from Fisher's Area Swim Team, turned 13 before the start of the 2025-26 season, but her performances were still impressive. She held 24 top-10 times across both courses, including nation-leading times in the 1500 free, 200 breast, 100 fly, and more. Gannon's versatility was evident as she led the country in five events and held top-10 times in each stroke, except for backstroke. Her performances earned her the 11-12 girls' award, despite some controversy over her age.
Controversy and Overlooked Talent
The 11-12 age group saw some controversial moments and overlooked talent. Sara Young, from Rockville Montgomery Swim Club, slowly made her mark, leading the nation in seven events by the end of the short course season. Zaryna Wardlay, from Metroplex Aquatics, also turned 13 just before Gannon, leading the country in three events and holding top-20 times in multiple strokes. These swimmers, though not winning the top awards, deserve recognition for their impressive performances.
Looking Ahead
The 2025 Swammy Awards highlight the incredible talent in the 11-12 age group. Ayden Tan and Grace Gannon's performances were exceptional, but the awards also shed light on the overlooked and controversial. As we look ahead, these young swimmers will continue to make waves, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the pool.
