Nitro Swimming’s Derek Hernandez-Ojeda Picks Arizona State for 2028-29
NEW COMMIT: Arizona State University has picked up another verbal commitment for the 2028-29 season and beyond, this time from Derek Hernandez-Ojeda of Cedar Park, Texas. Hernandez-Ojeda is a Summer Nationals qualifier who excels in backstroke and butterfly.
He will join Isaac Elhard and Domenico Sotomayor in Tempe as a member of the Sun Devils’ Class of 2032.
Regarding his commitment, he said:
“I am extremely excited to announce my verbal commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Arizona State University! I want to thank everyone who has believed in me and supported me so much, such as my coaches and parents. Thank you Coach Herbie and the rest of the ASU staff for this opportunity. Excited for whats to come! Forks up!!”
Hernandez-Ojeda, who trains year-round with Nitro Swimming, most recently competed at Junior Nationals where he placed eighth in the 200m back and 22nd in the 200m IM after racing three events at Summer Nationals. Last winter, he finished 11th in the 200 back at Juniors West before going on to final in three events at Justin Speedo Sectionals.
Hernandez-Ojeda also represents Marmolejo Nadadores in Mexico. He won the 100m fly at the Selectivo a Eventos Internacionales in April.
His best times include:
- 200 back – 1:44.21
- 100 back – 50.20
- 200 fly – 1:50.28
- 100 fly – 51.19
- 400 IM – 3:58.60
Currently a junior at Vista Ridge High School, Hernandez-Ojeda placed ninth in the 100 back at the 2026 Texas UIL 6A State Championships. He took third in the 100 back and fourth in the 200 IM at the 2026 UIL Region 6-7A Championships, too.
Arizona State won the Big 12 Championship for the second straight year in 2026. The Sun Devils then went on to finish fourth at the 2026 NCAA Championships. In total, ASU has produced 233 All-Americans, 169 conference champions, 56 national champions and 71 Olympians.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
