“My advice for new and inspiring coaches, know that there's a support system (like PDCA or other diving coaches) and it's okay to ask for help or advice. Diving is constantly changing and there's many different perspectives and viewpoints on how to coach, or even breaking down dives...and asking for help is OK....is OK to admit you don't know everything, heck I learn something new almost every day.”

“Always keep learning. Stay open to new ideas and be willing to learn from anyone. And before every big meet, I remind myself: ‘If the athlete does well, it’s their fault. If the athlete doesn’t perform well, it’s the coach’s fault.’”

“Don’t be afraid to take chances. We all will make mistakes or experience challenges (especially in the beginning), but failing is part of learning. How can we learn if we don’t try?”

“For new coaches, I would say that they need to take all parts of their diving experience into account when developing their style. By reflecting on the positive of interaction and training as well as the negative aspects of their experience, they can incorporate the positive and find a way to help athletes when they are having a difficult time that you may be able to relate with them. Try not to fall into the “This is what I was taught” trap. Diving is an always changing sport. Keep up with new techniques and the use of new equipment. Learn from those around you and encourage others to share information that will help you become a better coach and leader. Learn about your divers. Mostly because athletes are individuals and learning their strengths and weaknesses is a valuable skill to help them gain skills and trust.”

“You don’t know everything. Always be willing to adapt, learn and be humble to those who have more experience, but adapt to your way.”

“I believe in building from the basics. Like anything in life, if you don’t have a strong foundation, everything else crumbles. That’s why we prioritize fundamentals and strong basics.”

“As a coach I want to develop strong athletes but also people. I want them to have fun, be proud of themselves, and love their sport. For most athletes, their diving career will end after high school or college. My goal for each individual I coach is to learn how to be strong-willed & independent. I want them to accomplish their diving goals while also teaching them valuable life skills like determination, drive, sportsmanship, confidence, and respect. The lessons we learn in sports take us farther than most of our accomplishments ever will.”

“My coaching philosophy is that divers need to understand why something is happening in order to effect positive change. I was trained as a teacher of special populations, so I try to understand why a diver is having problems in a dive and develop a strategy to help them either work around or through the issue. Of course, the most rewarding part of coaching is helping a diver get over a difficulty or fear that has been holding them back. Sometimes that may involve learning a certain dive or how to compete up to their potential (and yes, it can take years).”

“Perspective. When a coach can align their goals with the athlete’s goals and understand that the athlete’s priorities come first, that’s where the magic happens.”

“Communication, saying the same things in many ways to adapt to the athlete.”