After 12 years of early mornings, intense practices and thousands of yards swum, Mt. Lebanon senior Lilly Evan has committed to Holy Cross swimming, joining a competitive NCAA Division I program.
Mt. Lebanon girls swimming has seen recent individual success from athletes such as Sylvia Roy, now a swimmer at the University of Virginia who competed at the 2024 U.S. Olympic Trials. The Lebo team finished third in the WPIAL Class 3A standings at the 2025 WPIAL Championships, behind North Allegheny and Fox Chapel.
The team posted an 8-2-1 overall record during the 2024-25 season and went 6-0 in section competition, earning the section championship. During the 2025-26 season, the roster includes five seniors, including Evan.
Evan began swimming 12 years ago while living in London, where swimming was mandatory at her school. She said she quickly fell in love with the sport after being placed in an advanced group at a young age.
Before committing to Holy Cross, Evan was in contact with American University, Colgate University and the University of Rhode Island. After visiting Holy Cross, she said she knew it was the right fit.
“I loved the balance of strong academics and a competitive Division I program,” Evan said. “The team environment felt welcoming and supportive, and the coaches were approachable and genuinely invested in their athletes.”
Evan will join former Mt. Lebanon teammate Ellie Reinhart, now a sophomore at Holy Cross who earned Patriot League Academic Honor Roll honors last season.
Evan primarily competes in the 100-yard backstroke and 100-yard butterfly, in addition to freestyle relays. In college, she plans to continue swimming those events while adding the 200 backstroke. Her favorite event is the 100 backstroke.
Evan said her senior season played a significant role in shaping her development as a swimmer and preparing her for the next level.
“My senior season has been so special,” she said. “It’s given me the chance to reflect on the amazing friendships I’ve made and how much swimming has shaped me into who I am today.”
Evan credited her parents and coaches for their support throughout her swimming career.
“My coaches have had the biggest impact on my swimming,” Evan said. “They push me to work hard during practice so I can reach my goals. Outside of the pool, my parents have been my biggest supporters, encouraging me to do my best in school and supporting me throughout my swim journey.”
For incoming freshmen, Evan advised soaking in the experience while continuing to work hard.
“Set achievable goals, work hard and push yourself,” she said. “But also make sure you’re having fun along the way, because it goes by so quickly.”
For younger swimmers interested in competing at the collegiate level, Evan encouraged getting involved in the recruiting process early, including researching and visiting schools before junior year to reduce stress and stay organized.
At Holy Cross, Evan said she is most excited to compete at a higher level alongside teammates with a shared mindset.
“Everyone is motivated to push themselves and each other to get better,” Evan said. “That’s the kind of environment I want to be in.”
The girls’ next meet is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, at Seneca Valley Senior High School.
As she wraps up her senior season at Mt. Lebanon, Evan is already setting goals for her future at Holy Cross.
“One goal for my first year is to contribute to the team right away,” Evan said. “Whether that’s through my performances in the pool or by helping create a positive and supportive environment.”
