Upper St. Clair graduate Abby Matheny earned her first honor as a member of the Williams women’s swimming team, and it was a big one.

Matheny, 20, a sophomore, was named a Division III All-American in the 500-yard freestyle by the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America.

Matheny achieved a NCAA B cut of 4 minutes, 56.27 seconds in the New England Small College Athletic Conference championship meet in February. She placed ninth overall and first in the consolation final, helping the Ephs, who are based in Massachusetts, to the title.

Because the NCAA championship was canceled due to the coronavirus, all individuals who were selected made All-America.

“I want to be All-American again,” said Matheny, a two-time WPIAL Class AAA champion in the girls 200 freestyle. “More importantly, I want to help Williams win another NESCAC championship and place high at NCAAs.

“I miss training with my team, and cannot wait to get back.”

Matheny said she has been swimming every morning before going to work and lifting weights three times a week to keep in shape.

Ephs coach Steve Kuster said it has been great having Abby on the team the past two years.

“She is an incredibly hard worker and a very thoughtful and supportive teammate,” he said. “She loves swimming and comes to the pool every day with a great attitude.

“When it comes to racing, she is as tough and competitive as anyone. I look forward to seeing her continue to develop.”

Matheny, who is pursuing chemistry and environmental studies, said it would be cool to join her brother in next year’s U.S. Olympic Team Trials.

Josh Matheny, an Upper St. Clair rising senior and Indiana recruit, is a four-time World Juniors championships medalist and a member of the 2019-20 national team.

“Swimming has created a strong bond between us,” Abby said. “I would not be the athlete I am today without him.”

Josh, 17, said his sister has been a role model in and out of the pool.

“Abby inspires me with her hard work and dedication,” he said.

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