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Swimming Standout Mark Heffern to Sign with SMU

Brophy senior Mark Heffern has committed to swimming and attending Southern Methodist University in the fall. The Mustangs compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. 

“I am really excited to swim at SMU,” said Heffern. “They have a really good team there. I am ready to improve my speed under the coaches and take advantage of what they have to offer to help me advance in my career.”

Heffern will compete for Greg Rhodenbaugh. The former SMU All-American enters his seventh season (2025-26) with the Mustangs. In 2024-25, the Mustangs embarked on their first season as members of the ACC. During the season, SMU worked on rewriting the record books, posting 33 new Top-10 times, along with new school records in the 100 backstroke, 200 backstroke, 200 freestyle relay, 800 freestyle relay, 200 medley relay, and 400 medley relay. The Mustangs also reached NCAA standards in four different relays, competing in three at the NCAA Championships.

“Mark was truly a captain and leader,” said Head Coach Patrick O’Neill. “He was a role model for the younger swimmers. He exemplified the sportsmanship we ask of our athletes, and it was a result of his talk at the retreat that set the expectations. I hate to see him go, but wish him the best at SMU.”

Heffern completed his career at the AIA Division I State meet last week, winning an individual and relay state titles and recording a pair of second-place finishes. Hefferm, who was a Scholastic All-American, swam the butterfly leg of the first-place 200 medley relay with Finn Conley, Brayden Harrison, and Noah Heimer. He defended his title in the 200 individual medley in 1:51.38. He was also second in the 100 butterfly and the 400 freestyle relay with teammates Nolan Guidry, Thomas McCauley, and Asher Gomez. The Broncos won the team state title for the second consecutive season. 

While he always wants to go faster and break records, Heffern was proud of his performance and his team. 

“It is the brotherhood we have at Brophy swim, and it is the best thing I am part of at the school,” said Heffern, who plans to study mechanical engineering.. “I wanted to get a school record in the 200 IM. But, I am happy and am ready for the next things in my career.”

Heffern will join Ashton Joswiak as one of the two swimmers who have made collegiate commitments. 

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