Miami-Ohio has announced that Samantha Pitter will be the program’s next head coach. Former head coach Hollie Bonewit-Cron departed the program in May to become the next head coach at Penn State.
Pitter arrives at Miami after most recently spending two seasons as associate head coach with the University of Pittsburgh. Both the Pitt men and women sent athletes to NCAAs.
“I am beyond excited for this opportunity. I want to thank Jennie Gilbert and David Sayler for their commitment to finding a great leader for the Miami Swimming & Diving programs. The history and tradition of excellence in the athletics department is evident, and the Swimming & Diving program has a strong foundation of success,” Pitter said. “The amazing balance of high-level academics and championship-level athletic programs will continue to draw in outstanding student-athletes. I look forward to leading Miami forward and reaching new heights! Go RedHawks!”
Prior to arriving at Pitt, Pitter spent eight seasons with Harvard including four years as associate head coach of the men’s program. Pitter was the lead coach of NCAA Champion Dean Farris who won the 100 back and 100 free NCAA titles in 2019.
Pitter also brings head coaching experience to Miami as she served as acting head coach of MIT in 2012-2013 after spending four years as an assistant with the team as well. Both the men and women won three straight NEWMAC Championships.
This summer, Pitter will serve as an assistant coach for Cape Verde at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She also has served as a USA National Team coach three times.
Pitter graduated from Hamilton College in 2007, majoring in Economics and Communication. She went on to earn her Masters of Education in Physical Education Specializing in Coaching from Boston University in 2011.
Pitter arrives to Miami with the men coming off of a conference title and the women coming off of a second place finish at the 2024 MAC Championships. The women sent one swimmer to NCAAs although Nicole Maier has since announced her transfer to Florida for her 5th year.
Great hire for Miami Ohio and big career progression for Sam. On the flip side, another one bites the dust for Pitt…3 coaches gone in the last 12months (Reott left coaching for months, Willets left coaching for good, now Sam out of the program too) what is Kreitler doing?
I don’t think an assistant coach leaving to take a head coaching position is necessarily indicative of anything nefarious.
Congratulations!