Michigan Lands First 2028 Verbal From Wisconsin State Champion Max Garbacz
NEW COMMIT: The University of Michigan has secured its first public verbal commitment for Fall 2028 from Madison, Wisc. native Max Garbacz. Garbacz, who is among the top recruits in the Class of 2032, is a Junior National qualifier who excels in backstroke and IM.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am beyond excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at the University of Michigan! First, I want to thank God for guiding me and giving me this opportunity. Thank you to my mom and dad for supporting me over the years and always believing in me, and to my club coaches, Jake and Shane, for pushing me to my limits everyday in the pool and helping me become the swimmer I am today. Finally, thank you to Coach Gunnar, Coach Matt, and the rest of the Michigan staff for believing in me. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be part of this incredible school and program in the near future. Go Blue!!!!!”
Garbacz trains year-round with Madison Aquatic Club. He most recently competed at Junior Nationals where he placed fifth in the 200m IM, 10th in the 200m back and 11th in the 400m IM. That was after he finished fifth in the 400m IM at Madison Futures and third in the 200m back at Westmont Speedo Sectionals.
Last winter, Garbacz raced to fifth in the 400 IM, 15th in the 200 back and 19th in the 200 IM at Juniors West before going on to win the mile at Wisconsin Short Course Seniors. He also finaled in eight events at NCSA Spring Championships, highlighted by a seventh-place finish in the 400 IM and an eight-place showing in the 200 back.
His best times include:
- 100 back – 48.75
- 200 back – 1:45.31
- 200 IM – 1:47.29
- 400 IM – 3:51.25
Currently a junior at Madison West High School, Garbacz won the 200 IM and the 500 free at the 2025 Wisconsin DI State Championships. He took second in the 100 back and third in the 200 IM at the state meet as a freshman in 2024.
Michigan placed second at the 2026 Big Ten Championships and eighth at the 2026 NCAA Championships.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
