CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Head coach Jeana Kempe announced a class of three signees that will join Illinois swim and dive for the 2026-27 campaign. Swimmers Kate Farrell and Eva Paraschiv, along with diver Hanna Ekdahl, signed Big Ten Athletics Aid Agreements this week.
Kate Farrell
Notes: Five-time All-State honoree…Four-time All-American, Scholastic All-American… Owns IHSA state record in the 400 freestyle relay.
Why Illinois? Academic and athletic excellence were both priorities for me, and Illinois was the perfect combination. I immediately felt welcomed by the team and staff, and could easily see myself calling Illinois home.
Hanna Ekdahl
Notes: Two-time Senior Champion (Three-meter dive)... Nordic Junior Champion (Three-meter dive)... Member of Swedish Junior National Team.
Why Illinois? "I love the coaches, love the team, had an instant family feeling and it's a great school with a great business program."
Eva Paraschiv
Notes: Competed at the World Championships twice (2023, 2025)... Competed at the European Championships three times (2022, 2023, 2025)... Swam at the European Youth Olympic Festival (2022)... 8th place at the 2023 European Championships.
Why Illinois? "I chose Illinois because it offers an excellent combination of academic opportunities and cultural diversity. The state has universities with a strong reputation, dedicated professors, and programs that are well connected to industry."
