Johns '25 sets new school records, chases down brother’s legacy

First published in The Bachelor, August 20, 2022.

BENJAMIN BULLOCK '23 | SPORTS EDITOR • Ethan Johns ‘25 is one of Wabash’s star athletes right now. Only one year into his intercollegiate swimming career, Johns is already turning heads with his lightning quick times and record-breaking ability.

Ethan Johns '25 (middle lane) set two long course team records at the Futures Championships in Cary, North Carolina in July.

But then, it shouldn’t really come as a surprise. His older brother, Elliot Johns ‘16, was also one of Wabash’s finest swimmers. Elliot still holds the school 200-yard freestyle record and, until this year, held the 100-yard freestyle record. He was also part of the 2014 team that broke the 800- yard freestyle relay record, another achievement that still stands today.

But for Ethan, the legacy of his brother doesn’t daunt him. It’s his biggest motivator.

At the end of July, Johns competed in the Speedo Futures Championships in Cary, N.C., where he set two long course school records. In the 200-meter freestyle, Johns set a time of 1:59.05, a near half-second improvement on his performance just weeks earlier at the Indiana Senior Long Course Championship. He also set a new school record in the 100-meter freestyle with a time of 54:11.

“It feels great having the early success I have had in my swimming career at Wabash,” said Johns. “I enjoy the pressure of being a top contributor on the team, which is something I previously have not had the opportunity to experience in my swimming career. It excites me to think about what this team can accomplish down the road.”

The pressure factor is only one element of Johns’ athletics package. At the heart of his performance is a desire to compete with his older brother. But what makes Johns special is his absolute belief in his ability not only to match his brother but to beat him too.

“I have my sights set on more records,” said Johns. “My older brother, Elliot, currently has the 200- yard freestyle record for the school. This is a record that pushes me to train and compete at the highest level I can, and I am looking to breaking it this upcoming season.”

Johns exudes confidence both in the pool and out of it. He is, according to Head Swimming and Diving Coach Will Bernhardt, the perfect example of what a Wabash swimmer should be.

“He is incredibly balanced and understands the dynamics of what it takes to be a very good student and a great athlete,” said Coach Bernhardt. “I was amazed at how well he handled his course load, swimming, and his time away from both during his freshman year.

“He is one of the most dedicated athletes that I have had the privilege to coach. He is a team player that wants everyone to succeed and be a part of the great things our program can achieve. That is what makes him so fun to coach.”

The Wabash swimming and diving team opens its fall season in October with the Indiana DIII Meet at Rose-Hulman. Johns looks to continue his good form into the new academic year – and to break more records along the way.