Courtesy: Norwich Athletics
NORTHFIELD, Vt. – Norwich University Director of Athletics Tony Mariano has announced the hiring of Jennifer Fenton Cournoyer as head coach of the men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams on Tuesday.
“I am pleased to announce the hiring of Jennifer Cournoyer are Norwich’s new head men’s and women’s swimming and diving coach,” Mariano said. “Jennifer comes to Norwich with a wealth of experience in swimming and will bring a new perspective to our student athletes. She has worked at all levels and knows what Norwich is all about. I am confident she will elevate our program to new success.”
Cournoyer comes to Northfield after spending 16 seasons at the University of Vermont from August 2003-2019. She began as a volunteer assistant (2003-04) and moved into the full-time assistant role from 2004-10. In 2010 she was named Associate Head Coach. Jennifer graduated from Bloomsburg University in the spring of 1995 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Adult Health with a minor in Psychology. She completed her Masters of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies at UVM in the spring of 2019.
Jennifer was a four-year member of the swimming team at Bloomsburg, serving as team captain her senior season. Her husband, Gerry, graduated from Norwich in 1990, and spent two seasons on the NU swim team.
“I am honored to be named Norwich University’s Head Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Coach. I would like to thank Tony Mariano, the search committee, and the student-athletes for their trust and belief in my abilities,” Cournoyer said. “Norwich is a place of tradition, honesty, purpose and I felt that the moment I walked onto campus. I am excited about the future of the program and even more eager to represent my husband’s alma mater. Watching and participating in the growth of the swimming and diving program at UVM has undoubtedly been a highlight of my career and I am incredibly thankful for that opportunity.”
Cournoyer also served as head coach at King’s College (1997-98) and Lock Haven University (1999-2001) before relocating to Vermont. At UVM, Jennifer was part of the three time (2006-07. 2008-09 and 2015-16) America East Coaching Staffs of the Year while working with distance and mid-distance swimmers. She coached the 2009 America East Swimmer of the Year as well as the three-time 1650 freestyle conference champion (2008-10).
Jennifer will also serve as the Aquatics Director for Goodyear Pool.
