News Summary

Kenneth McGlothen, a talented swimmer from George Washington High School in Charleston, West Virginia, has verbally committed to join the swimming program at West Virginia University in 2030. This commitment marks a significant milestone in his athletic career, as he follows in the footsteps of his family’s legacy in competitive swimming. Kenneth aims to uphold the family’s tradition while pursuing his passion and honing his skills in a high-caliber program. With numerous accolades in state championships and club competitions, he is poised to make a strong impact at the collegiate level.

Charleston Welcomes a Future Star: Kenneth McGlothen Chooses WVU

In a thrilling announcement that is lighting up the swimming world, Kenneth McGlothen, a standout swimmer from George Washington High School in Charleston, West Virginia, has made a verbal commitment to join the swimming program at West Virginia University in 2030. This exciting decision not only marks a personal milestone for Kenneth but also adds another chapter to an impressive family legacy in competitive swimming.

A Legacy of Excellence

Kenneth, an accomplished swimmer and a USA Swimming Scholastic All-American, is about to dive into a world filled with opportunities. The promising athlete chose WVU for its incredible facilities, a fantastic coaching staff, and the joy of representing his home state. But this isn’t just about Kenneth; it’s also about family as he will be joining his sister, Madi McGlothen, as part of the same swimming program. This sibling duo is set to uphold their family’s commendable tradition of Division 1 swimming.

The McGlothen family’s swimming roots run deep, with their grandfather, Greg Olson, making waves as an All-American swimmer at Bucknell University and dedicating over 40 years to running the HYCAT swim program in Charleston. Their mother, Melissa Olson, also made her mark as an All-American at Kentucky, where she secured a silver medal in the 400 IM during her freshman year and held the school record for nearly 16 years. It’s clear that competitive swimming is a family affair!

Rising Star of the Pool

Currently swimming with the YMCA Kanawha Valley Kraken club team, Kenneth has been on a winning streak throughout his high school career. During his time at George Washington High, he clinched several state titles, including impressive victories in the 500 freestyle, where he posted times of 4:42.62 in 2023 and 4:39.78 in 2024. His prowess continued as he triumphed in the 200 IM with a time of 1:51.92 in 2024, alongside taking home gold in the 200 free (1:40.48) and 100 back (50.34) just a year later.

To add to his accolades, Kenneth has also shown resilience by earning runner-up honors in the 200 IM as a freshman, posting a time of 1:57.91 in 2023. His competitive spirit drove him to participate in major events like the U.S. Open in December 2024, where he recorded a remarkable best time of 58.44 in the 100 breast during time trials.

Breaking Records and Setting Standards

Kenneth has not only been racing ahead of the competition but also setting new personal bests. At the Winter Juniors East, he recorded impressive times in the 100 back (50.50), 200 back (1:48.15), and 100 breast (58.09). His performance at the 2025 West Virginia Short Course Championships was nothing short of spectacular, winning the 500 free, 200 back, and 200 breast, and finishing strong in several other events, significantly boosting his standing in the state.

Moreover, Kenneth broke the West Virginia state record in the 200 back at the 2025 YMCA Short Course National Championships with a blazing time of 1:46.56. He also excelled in long course events, finishing in the top 8 at Futures with remarkable performances in Richmond, showcasing his growth and dedication in the sport.

Beyond the Pool

When he’s not making waves in the pool, Kenneth enjoys playing guitar, gaming with friends, and traveling with family. Balancing his passion for swimming with personal interests makes him not just a swimmer, but a well-rounded individual. As Kenneth prepares to embark on his college journey, both the swimming community and his family roots are poised to follow his adventures at West Virginia University. The journey is just beginning, and it’s sure to be an exciting ride!

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