— By Bill Cornwell
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Marshall University has found a new leader for its women’s swimming and diving program.
Phoebe Campbell, who was part of Akron’s program as an assistant coach, is coming to Huntington to replace Ian Walsh, who recently left Marshall to become head coach of both the men’s and women’s swimming and diving program at Pittsburgh.
Campbell will officially be introduced at news conference on June 3 at the Joan C. Edwards Stadium Dutch Miller Deck.
“Today is another great day to run with The Herd as we proudly welcome Phoebe Campbell to Marshall University as the next Head Swimming and Diving Coach,” Marshall Vice President/Director of Athletics Gerald Harrison said. “Throughout our national search, we were intentional about identifying a coach who embodies the values of our Herd Mentality — someone who puts student-athletes first, builds meaningful relationships, recruits relentlessly, and competes with integrity. We weren’t looking for the next coach; we were looking for the right coach, and we believe Phoebe Campbell is exactly that.”
Campbell’s hiring comes not long after the Herd swimming and diving program was to be disbanded last winter.
The university’s Board of Governors initially approved the elimination in February due to cost and Title IX concerns. The addition of a varsity Stunt program was also approved at that time.
The Board then reversed course in March and reinstated the swimming and diving program when it was discovered Marshall was facing the prospect of violating Title IX scholarship numbers for female athletes.
Campbell was the recruiting coordinator and handed team operations for an Akron program that won five straight Mid-American Conference titles.
“I want to thank Athletic Director Gerald Harrison and President Brad Smith for believing in my ability to lead the Women’s Swimming and Diving team,” Campbell said. “I am committed to adding to the rich history of Marshall University and the excellence of the student-athletes. I am humbled and excited by this amazing opportunity to work with people so committed to the success and well-being of their student-athletes. The tight-knit community that Marshall is known for makes this an easy place to call home.”
Campbell made previous career coaching stops at New Mexico, Texas A&M, Ball State and Vassar College. She swam collegiately at Henderson State University in Arkansas.
Brian Peresie, head coach of swimming and diving at Akron, believes Marshall made the right hire.
“Phoebe has been a tremendous part of our program, and I could not be more excited for her as she takes this next step in her coaching career,” Peresie said. “She has a strong coaching mind, a great ability to build relationships, and a sincere commitment to helping student-athletes become the best version of themselves. Marshall is getting a high-character leader who will bring energy, purpose, and care to the program every day.”