Will Modglin: American Records, the 20.00 Barrier, and Redefining NCAA Backstroke Episode 277

Will Modglin just delivered one of the fastest backstroke performances in NCAA history.

In this episode of The Social Kick Podcast, we sit down with the new American record holder in the 100-yard backstroke after his 43.26 swim at the Texas Hall of Fame Invite. He also clocked the fastest 50-yard backstroke ever with a 20.00 lead-off split, coming within a touch of breaking one of swimming’s most iconic barriers.

A junior at the University of Texas and a U.S. National Team member, Will breaks down the mindset behind those record swims, the training culture at Texas under Bob Bowman, and how racing in one of the deepest backstroke groups in the NCAA has shaped his confidence.

We also dive into his unusual versatility, including how he went 50.9 in the 100 breaststroke with minimal breaststroke-specific training, how he approaches event selection, and where IM and long-course goals fit into his future.

The conversation wraps with audience questions and a rapid-fire round covering training, competition, and swim culture as Will looks ahead to what’s next in a breakout career.