UCLA Gets 2027 Verbal Pledge From Western Zone Senior Champion Lilla Kapinya
NEW COMMIT: The University of California, Los Angeles has secured another verbal commitment for Fall 2027, this time from in-state standout Lilla Kapinya of Carmichael, Calif. Kapinya is a versatile Junior National qualifier.
She will join Alicia Budacsek in Los Angeles as a member of the Bruins’ Class of 2031.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“After some time and consideration, I am incredibly excited to announce my commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at UCLA! I want to thank my teammates for being the reason I love this sport so much and to my coaches, Adric and Derek, for always believing in me and helping me grow every step of the way. Finally, none of this would be possible without the endless support of my family. Thank you to Coach Jordan and everyone at UCLA for being so supportive through this process and for providing me with this amazing opportunity to grow as an athlete. I’m very excited to become a part of the Bruin family and can’t wait to see what’s ahead! Go Bruins!”
Kapinya trains year-round with Life Time Northern California. She earned three best times at Juniors West back in December before going on to take 10th in the 50 free at Walnut Speedo Sectionals a week later. She most recently collected silver in the 100 free at Roseville Speedo Sectionals in February.
Last summer, she won the 100m free at Western Zone Senior Champipnships.
Her best times include:
- 50 free – 22.96
- 100 free – 49.61
- 200 free – 1:53.77
- 500 free – 5:11.94
- 200 IM – 2:07.72
- 400 IM – 4:40.57
- 100 breast – 1:05.38
- 200 breast – 2:27.61
- 100 fly – 56.75
Currently a junior at Saint Francis High School, Kapinya finished 11th in the 50 free at the 2025 CIF State Championships after placing fifth in that event at the 2025 CIF San Joaquin Section Championships.
UCLA finished seventh in the team standings at the 2026 Big Ten Championships.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
