Hannah Gouger

Former swim-and-dive standout nominated for NCAA award

August 28, 2020

Spider Pride

Recent grad and decorated Spider swimmer Hannah Gouger was nominated this summer for this year’s prestigious NCAA Woman of the Year award, based on her academic, athletic, and community service achievements. She is one of two nominations from the University of Richmond, joining women’s basketball alum Jaide Hinds-Clarke.  

Along with numerous Atlantic 10 Conference recognitions, Gouger is also a two-time U.S. Olympic trial qualifier, having qualified in both 2016 and 2020. She holds UR and A-10 records in the 200-yard backstroke, and is one of only three Spider swimmers in UR history to have won two different events (100 and 200 backstroke) in all four years of eligibility.

"I’m very honored to have been nominated for this prestigious award, and I couldn't have done this without my teammates, coaches and family," Gouger said in a recent Collegian article.

Outside the pool, Gouger taught swim lessons to at-risk youth through the Youth Life Foundation of Richmond, volunteered with the Assistance Center of Towson Churches and Food for Thought, and attended both the Champion Leaders Winter Sports Cohort and Spider Athletic Leadership Institute. She was also a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).

Gouger graduated last spring with a degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing.

Established in 1991, the NCAA Woman of the Year program recognizes women in collegiate athletics and honors their academic achievements, athletics excellence, community service, and leadership.