RALEIGH, N.C. - William Peace University Athletics has announced the hiring of Sophia Swenson as the next head coach of the Pacer men's and women's swimming programs.
A four-year standout for the Pacers from 2020-24, Swenson returns to her alma mater after gaining coaching experience at both the club and high school levels throughout the Triangle. Most recently, she served as Head Coach for the Raleigh Marlins after leading Cary High School during the 2024-25 season. Prior to that, she spent three years as an assistant coach with YOTA Swim Team while also coaching with the Abbington Alligators, where her competitive swimming journey first began.
"Once a Pacer, always a Pacer." Swenson said. "I am grateful for the chance to give back to the program that shaped me. Let's go, Pacers!"
One of the most decorated swimmers in program history, Swenson was named the Independent South Swimming Conference Female Athlete of the Year in 2022 and earned conference Female Athlete of the Year Runner-Up honors in 2024. She was also recognized as William Peace University's Female Performance of the Year in 2022 and Female Newcomer of the Year in 2021.
Swenson leaves her mark throughout the Pacer record book, holding school records in the 50 freestyle (24.65), 100 freestyle (54.10), 200 freestyle (2:00.84), 500 freestyle (5:20.31), and as a member of the program-record 200 freestyle relay, 400 freestyle relay, 200 medley relay, and 400 medley relay teams.
As a student-athlete, Swenson helped establish the foundation of the Pacer swimming program throughout her leadership, competitive success and commitment to excellence. She now returns to William Peace with a passion for developing student-athletes both in and out of the pool while building upon the program's continued growth.
"Sophia was a standout as a student-athlete during her time here at Peace." Athletic Director Claude Shields said. "She knows our program better than anyone. She will recruit and retain swimmers at a high level because she knows how transformative the experience is here at 15 E Peace Street. The future of Peace Swimming is bright!".
Swenson begins her duties next week and will lead the Pacers into the upcoming 2026-27 season.
