Swimming podcast feature is courtesy of Champion’s Mojo, a SwimSwam partner.
When you think of powerhouse swimming states, California, Florida, or Texas might spring to mind—places with year-round sunshine, vast populations, and thriving swim programs. But Virginia has been quietly making waves as a swimming stronghold, thanks to its legacy of exceptional coaching at the USA Swimming club level.
Virginia’s influence isn’t just in producing top-tier swimmers; it’s in cultivating an environment where dedication, innovation, and mentorship thrive. From the grassroots to the Olympic stage, Virginia coaches have built programs that inspire and deliver results.
To hear great insights below are five captivating podcast interviews with a few of the top Virginia coaches who have shaped swimmers’ lives and elevated the sport (by no means an exhaustive list). These episodes delve into the minds and methods of coaches responsible for training Olympians, building thriving communities, and fostering a love for swimming that transcends the pool deck. Whether you’re a coach, swimmer, or just a fan of excellence, these conversations are packed with insights, strategies, and inspiration.
Featured Episodes
1. Gary Taylor – Cavalier Aquatics
Discover how Gary Taylor has propelled Cavalier Aquatics into the national spotlight. From coaching USA National Team standout Thomas Heilman to collaborating with UVA’s elite program led by Todd DeSorbo, Taylor reveals the meticulous planning and innovative techniques behind his team’s success. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone curious about what it takes to produce versatile, world-class swimmers.
2. Jonathan Kaplan – SwimRVA and the Rapids Swim Team
Jonathan Kaplan transformed a modest program into a thriving community of over 580 swimmers. Learn how Kaplan blends mentorship, fun, and responsibility to create a culture of excellence. This episode will leave you inspired with actionable insights for building community and unlocking the potential of swimmers of all ages.
3. Dudley Duncan – Quest Swimming, Founder
Dudley Duncan’s approach to swimming marries strategy with joy. From coaching Olympians like Whitney Hedgepeth and Rada Owen to writing The Art of Swimming and the Game of Racing, Duncan, the founder and longtime coach of Quest Swimming, shares a wealth of knowledge. In this episode, he offers strategies for competition, insights on navigating challenges, and advice for fostering a lifelong love of swimming.
4. Mark Kutz – NOVA Aquatics
Mark Kutz has spent decades coaching youth and Masters swimmers to remarkable heights. With stories of guiding beginners to competitive success and coaching Masters world-record holders, Kutz shares tips on endurance, speed, and making the most of every lap. This episode is perfect for anyone eager to unlock their swimming potential.
5. John Flanagan – Nation’s Capital Swim Club
With over 50 years of coaching experience, John Flanagan’s impact on swimming is unparalleled. His stories of perseverance and discipline reveal how swimming shapes lives beyond the pool. Whether coaching young athletes or mentoring Masters swimmers, Flanagan offers a lifetime of lessons on resilience, dedication, and the enduring spirit of the sport.
Virginia’s strength in swimming isn’t just about talent—it’s about the coaches who cultivate it. These five interviews showcase the dedication, creativity, and heart that Virginia’s coaches bring to the pool. Whether you’re a swimmer, coach, or fan of the sport, these episodes offer invaluable insights and a deeper appreciation for the art of coaching.
ABOUT CHAMPION’S MOJO:
Champion’s Mojo is the award-winning and #1 podcast for Masters swimmers, adult athletes, and fitness enthusiasts who strive for peak performance and personal excellence. Each episode offers inspiring stories and expert interviews and insights. You’ll hear proven strategies to help you unlock your champion mindset—in the pool and in life. With nearly 300 episodes and a track record as one of the top-ranked swimming podcasts, Champion’s Mojo is your go-to resource for motivation, success, and well-being. We’re here to champion you! Hosted by world-record-setting Masters swimmer and Health and Performance Coach Kelly Palace, a former Division 1 Head Swimming Coach and Best-Selling Author.
OMG!
Sorry for the double-posting; had a hell of a time editing on my cellphone!
I have a great respect for athletic talent (ie: Michael Phelps, Katie, Caeleb, Summer, etc), but these natural talents have been/are guided by phenomenal swimming professionals. These athletes could not attain there success without the help of experienced professional swim coaches.
My humble opinion is that we dont talk about that much enough. There would be no Mark Spitz without Doc Councilman. No Katie without Yuri and coach Gemmel. No Caeleb without coach Lopez and coach Troy…i think you get my drift!
Coaches do a phenomenal job developing athletic talent and they do a phenomenal job developing great individuals.
We should do more to highlight the impact that these professionals have. There is no athletic talents without coaches talents.
My… Read more »
I have a great respect for athletic talent (ie: Michael Phelps, Katie, Caeleb, Summer, etc), but these natural talents have been/are guided by phenomenal swimming professionals. These athletes could not attain there success without the help of experienced professional swim coaches.
My humble opinion is that we dont talk about that enough. There would be no Mark Spitz without Doc Councilman. No Katie without Yuri and coach Gemmel. No Caeleb without coach Lopez and coach Troy…you get my drift!
Thank you for this article. Thank you for highlighting the essential work that coaches do to develop incredible athletes and incredible individuals.
I feel we need to better recognize the coaching talents that are behind the athletic talents.
My 2 cents… Read more »
If were talking about club coaches in VA, Someone should really interview Ryan Woodfruff from Lynchburg YMCA.
He’s one of the most intelligent, astute and trustworthy coaches I’ve ever encountered. I say coaches but I mean people. I remember when he came to LY, all I could think was how lucky we were to get him.
Just check out his Instagram @swimmingwizzard
I have to chuckle at this article a little bit. Virginia Swimming (meaning the LSC and not counting N. Va.) has historically been about coaches “skimming” talent off the top and taking credit for when they meet milestones. In most areas, there really is not much of a choice when picking a team, you usually only have 1 to 2 options so you generally hold your nose and pick the lesser of two evils. I have lost count on how many coaches I have seen turn up their noses at talent that they might actually have to put some work into, in favor of just standing by and waiting for somebody turn key to fall into their lap. In many… Read more »
Ironic considering the success (or lack thereof) the main public university head coach has had with men…
What makes you hate UVA so much that you gotta comment this on an article trying to positively promote club coaches working with high schoolers?
The Hokie men are having a great season!!
This is a UVA stan website. Didn’t you know this? Just do a quick scroll on the main page. All UVA 😂
Isn’t the LSC the largest in the US?
No, and it’s not all that close either. Very mid-pack.
In 2023, the last data released, Virginia LSC had 6,059. Southern California was the largest at 17,045, Illinois next at 16,0092.
If Northern Virginia was not a part of PVS, Virginia Swimming would likely be top 2 or 3.
The State of Virginia has a rich swimming history, and one of its most legendary records is from the Northern Virginia Swimming League back in 1965:
Boys Free 25M 8&U
15.10
Roger McLeod
1965-07-10
https://www.mynvsl.com/records