(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS women’s swimming team is adding backstroker Ella Lightheart to their recruiting class of 2022.

The 17-year-old, from Barrie, Ontario, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2022-2023 Atlantic University Sport season.

“Ella came to our recruiting camp and was super easy going and quickly made a connection with the team,” said Marta Belsh, head coach of the REDS. “She works hard and is very coachable.”

A veteran member of the Barrie Trojans Swim Club, Lightheart is a backstroke specialist and competes in the individual medley.

She’s qualified for and competed at numerous Ontario championships. Recently, she competed at the 2022 Eastern Canadian Championships, in Pointe Claire, Quebec.

“I’ve been a competitive swimmer since I was eight,” said Lightheart. “I’ve always been focused and committed. These strengths have helped me achieve my goals.”

Finishing her Grade 12 year at Barrie’s Innisdale Secondary School, Lightheart is also a member of the Invaders’ varsity team.

“I’m excited to be a member of the REDS,” she said. “I hope to continue to improve and to contribute to the team. My goals are to medal at the AUS Championships and represent UNB at the U SPORTS Championships.

Lightheart will study Nursing while attending UNB.

PHOTOS: Submitted