Florida Swimming has honored Julington Creek Loggerheads coach Shawn Delifus as the 2016 Age Group Coach of the Year. Shawn was a talented coach with an obvious passion for swimming, dedicating his life to the sport until he passed away unexpectedly in April 2016.
Shawn’s success throughout his career led him to an ASCA Level 4 certification, placing him among the top swim coaches in the nation. He led several swimmers to reach their goals, which included anything from age group titles and state records to qualification for the U.S. Olympic Trials. Many of his swimmers went on to finish their swimming careers in the NCAA.
This summer, Two of Coach Shawn’s former swimmers went on to win gold for Team USA at the 2016 Rio Olympics. One of those swimmers was Caeleb Dressel, a 4×100 free relay Olympic gold medalist who now swims for the University of Florida. He trained with Shawn as an age group swimmer at the YMCA in Orange Park, Florida and at the Peak Performance Swim Camp in Orlando.
Another elite swimmer who crossed paths with Shawn is Ryan Murphy, a 3-time Olympic gold medalist and 100 back World Record holder. As an age grouper, Murphy swam with North Florida Swimming on the University of North Florida campus before he ended up at Bolles. There, he trained with Shawn and coach Andre Salles-Cunha.
Shawn was known not only for his success with his swimmers in the pool, but also for his talent in helping people develop in life outside of the water.
“Why do your goals matter? Once you’ve reached your goals will you be satisfied? The best way to enjoy the sport and make the most out of it is to learn to love the process and have compassion for the people around you. Goals are temporary but the relationships you make along the way last a life time.” -Coach Shawn Delifus
Catchy phrases and stroke drills aside, Shawn knew that the true meaning of swimming was deeper than what could be measured by a stopwatch. He brought out the best in people and guided them towards being happy and successful in every day life- which is why his success goes far beyond the accomplishments we can list on paper (which are already impressive enough in their own right).
AB
Thank you for this article……crying as I read this. My daughter swam under him and it was a terrible shock to all of us.
Well said Lauren..Shawn set the foundation for so many great swimmers…his enthusiasm and passion for the sport were like no other…congratulations to a great coach and human being.
Thanks!