Pitt has announced Marian Clark as an assistant coach for the Swimming and Diving program. The announcement comes after Clark spent multiple seasons within the program as the Director of Operations.
Clark is the latest move for a Pitt program that has undergone a complete restructuring this offseason. Beginning with former head Swimming and Diving coach Chase Kreitler, who resigned from his position after the program decided to go in a “different strategic direction.” Since then, the program has brought in Ian Walsh as head coach, who previously spent time as head coach at Marshall, as well as Josh Larcom as head diving coach and Washington State’s Austin Pillado as associate head swimming coach.
In a press release from the University, Pitt’s Director of Swimming and Diving, Katie Kasprzak, expressed excitement about Clark stepping into this role, noting that Clark’s longstanding experience with the program shows her “passion and commitment to our success are stronger than ever.”
“I couldn’t be more excited that Marian is remaining with Pitt Swimming & Diving and stepping into this role. After 33 years at Pitt, she knows this program better than anyone, and her passion and commitment to our success are stronger than ever. The moment I accepted this position, I knew I wanted Marian by my side.” Kasprzak said in the university’s press release. “What makes Marian special goes well beyond her knowledge of the sport. She is a role model of the highest character and someone our student-athletes, both men and women, look up to every day. She leads with compassion while bringing the competitiveness and drive that will continue to elevate our program.”
Clark began her career at Pitt in 1993 as the head women’s swimming coach. Nine years later, Clark moved into the role of director of operations for both the men’s and women’s teams and coached both teams as well. In 2016, Clark was also named Pitt’s director of athletic travel.
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to return to full-time coaching at Pitt,” Clark said in the press release. “It’s an honor to stand alongside Katie, Ian, Josh and Austin as we begin this new chapter for Panther Swimming and Diving. Hail to Pitt!”
Clark’s time with Pitt also extends back to her athletic days, when she was a University Provost Scholar, an NCAA qualifier, and a 10-time Big East champion, winning four straight Big East team championships.
In some ways this looks like a demotion
best possible move by new head coach Ian Walsh. Marion is PITT!!!!
Who is Marion
Read the bio. She’s an all around incredible person and a superb coach.