Fort Lauderdale, Florida, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Hayden Ferenc, a promising junior national diver from Fort Lauderdale, has verbally committed to join the University of Alabama for the fall of 2026. As a standout athlete from the YMCA of South Florida, Ferenc has achieved notable success in high school and national competitions, including a top finish in the platform event at the Junior Nationals. Her commitment comes as part of a larger recruitment class, positioning her for a significant role in Alabama’s diving program amid a strong team legacy.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Junior National diver Hayden Ferenc has officially made a verbal commitment to join the University of Alabama in the fall of 2026. This promising athlete, who is a member of the YMCA of South Florida, has expressed her enthusiasm about her decision and has acknowledged the support from her family, friends, and coaches throughout her diving journey.
Currently residing in Fort Lauderdale, Ferenc attends Fort Lauderdale High School. Her recent performances indicate a strong diving proficiency, highlighted by her 4th place finish in the women’s 1-meter diving event at the 3A high school state meet last year, where she achieved a score of 385.10. This performance positioned her among the top high school divers in the state.
In addition to her state-level performance, Ferenc has garnered attention on the national stage. She was recognized as the 10th ranked women’s diving recruit in the class of 2026 and has demonstrated her skill across various diving disciplines, including platform and springboard events.
At the 2025 USA Diving Zone B Championships, Ferenc showcased her talent by finishing 3rd in the 1-meter event for the 16-18 category, 8th in the 3-meter event, and 6th in the platform event. These impressive results allowed her to qualify for the prestigious USA Diving Junior Nationals.
During her participation at the Junior Nationals, Ferenc faced stiff competition, finishing 26th in the 1-meter event and 36th in the 3-meter event. However, she excelled in the platform event, where she placed 7th, further solidifying her reputation as a high-caliber diver.
The University of Alabama, which competes in the SEC (Southeastern Conference), had a commendable showing last season, finishing 6th overall in the conference competition. The Crimson Tide’s top diver from the previous year, freshman Brooklyn O’Day, secured 10th place in the platform event, contributing 17 points to the team. Another key diver, junior Ryleigh Rogers, will have graduated by the time Ferenc joins the squad, indicating potential opportunities for her within the team.
When Ferenc joins the Alabama Crimson Tide, she will be part of a recruitment class that includes seven other athletes: Eva Whitehead, Ella Justice, Alyse Block, Ava Grazziani, Georgia Wimberly, Emma Bronson, and Addison Sala. This class aims to build a strong future for the diving program, further enhancing its competitive standing in collegiate diving.
Ferenc’s commitment is supported by organizations such as Fitter and Faster Swim Camps, which sponsors SwimSwam’s College Recruiting Channel. This initiative celebrates the dedication and hard work of athletes in the swimming and diving community.
FAQ
What school did Hayden Ferenc commit to for diving?
Hayden Ferenc has made a verbal commitment to the University of Alabama for the fall of 2026.
Where does Hayden Ferenc currently train?
Ferenc trains at the YMCA of South Florida.
What are some of Hayden Ferenc’s notable diving achievements?
Ferenc finished 4th at the 3A high school state meet and has multiple top placements at national competitions, including a 7th place in the platform event at the Junior Nationals.
Which recruiting class will Hayden Ferenc be a part of at Alabama?
Ferenc will join a recruiting class that includes Eva Whitehead, Ella Justice, Alyse Block, Ava Grazziani, Georgia Wimberly, Emma Bronson, and Addison Sala.
Diving Statistics
| Competition | Event | Final Placement | Score/Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3A High School State Meet | 1-Meter | 4th Place | 385.10 |
| 2025 USA Diving Zone B Championships | 1-Meter | 3rd Place | N/A |
| 2025 USA Diving Zone B Championships | 3-Meter | 8th Place | N/A |
| 2025 USA Diving Zone B Championships | Platform | 6th Place | N/A |
| USA Diving Junior Nationals | 1-Meter | 26th Place | N/A |
| USA Diving Junior Nationals | 3-Meter | 36th Place | N/A |
| USA Diving Junior Nationals | Platform | 7th Place | N/A |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- SwimSwam: Alabama Snags Junior Nationals Diver Hayden Ferenc for Class of 2026
- Sun-Sentinel: Cavaretta Helps Lead Fort Lauderdale Girls to Third Place Finish at 3A State Swimming
- SwimSwam: Top 10 NCAA Diving Recruits in the Girls High School Class of 2026
- Wikipedia: Diving (sport)
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Diving
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