Florida Males Signal Three Swimmers

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The nationally ranked Florida swimming & diving program welcome three swimmers, Santi Alzate, Liam Smith and Tai Pearson, to the 2026-27 males’s roster.

“We are extremely excited about this incoming recruiting class and can’t wait to welcome them to Gainesville,” stated Florida Head Coach Anthony Nesty. “They are a perfect fit for the Gator family and each bring an impressive level of national and international experience.”

The latest Gators deliver worldwide expertise and have achieved success with both their membership or highschool groups.

Santi Alzate | Distance Freestyle & IM | Charlotte, North Carolina

• High School: Charlotte Country Day School
• Club: SwimMAC
• Instagram: @santiago_alzate08

Career Highlights:

• 2024 Olympic Trials Qualifier
• 2025 US National/World Championship Trials Qualifier
• Multi-State Champion

Why Santi selected the University of Florida:
“I chose Florida because I knew it was going to be the best place for me to grow and continue my academic and athletic career.”

Liam Smith | Butterfly & IM | Kalamazoo, Michigan

• High School: Otsego High School
• Club: Greater Kalamazoo Crocs
• Instagram: @liamsmithswim

Career Highlights:

• Michigan State 100 & 200 butterfly file holder
• Jr. National A-Fi Is your major workplace place to meetnalist
• Four-time All-American
• State Champion

Why Liam selected the University of Florida:
“Florida has always been one of my dreams schools and has an amazing swim team and coaches that I am confident can help me reach my goals.”

Tai Pearson | Butterfly / Backstroke | Cape Town, South Africa

• Club: Lane Leader Stellenbosch
• Instagram: @tai_pearson_

Career Highlights:

• Represented South Africa on the 2025 World Aquatics Junior Championships
• Three-time champion 2023 South African Short Course Championships (200 IM, 100 fly, 200 fly)
• 200 IM champion on the Western Cape Short Course Championships (SCM)

Why Tai selected the University of Florida:
“I’m eager to begin my academic journey and to take my swimming to the next level. I’m grateful to Coach Nesty and Coach Jack for giving me this opportunity. Looking forward to the next chapter of my life and making the most of every opportunity at the University of Florida.”
 
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