Former FLEET head swim coach Louis Demetriades died on Saturday after battling cancer. He was 48 years old.
Demetriades was diagnosed with pancreatic and bone cancer in June, though the origin of that cancer was unknown.
Demetriades took over as the head coach of the Cypress-Fairbanks Swim Club (FLEET) in suburban Houston in 2018 after four years as National Prep and Senior 2 Coach. Prior to that, he had stops as the head coach at Memphis Tiger Aquatics and NGSV Gator Aquatics, the head age group coach at the Nashville Aquatic Club, and a senior assistant at Swim Omaha.
Demetriades also has experience working with USA National and Junior National athletes who have qualified for and medaled at the Pan American Games and World Championships. His most recognized athletes include World Championships qualifier Pace Clark and recent USA Junior Team member Hayden Miller.
Jamie Lewis took over as the team’s head coach in mid-September.
I am just now hearing about Coach Louis’ death. As my age group coach during some of my most formative years, I will always remember him with deep respect and love. I was heartbroken when he left our NGSV Gators program to move to Tennessee, and switched teams to look for another coach as inspiring as him. I never did find another coach like Louis. He was tough but inspiring, pushing his swimmers to develop a strong work ethic and mental toughness. He inspired me to work my best each day and constantly reach higher. He was exactly the role model I needed in my life at the time, and the lessons I learned from him I have carried throughout… Read more »
Heartfelt sentiments to all the Fleet and Demetriades family.
I am sure this is very difficult for his family and his swimmers. Condolences to all who are effected.
A giving personality, pure in motivation and excellent in execution… Louis was uplifting and affirming to athletes and coaches alike.
Rest In Peace, Coach!
I had the privilege of working with Louis at NAC. He was a great coach and man. Much love to his family!
Louis was a good friend to me for 26 years; and, though already a great coach, he had plans designed to become one of the best. Cancer tends to get in the way of big plans, but I know Louis wrote out all his plans! I hope someone takes that knowledge or at least that passion and helps Louis’s swimming plans and dreams live beyond his earthly life…
What a great coach and wonderful guy Louis was. Prayers and blessings to his family, friends and athletes whose lives that he touched.
Amazing man and mentor. Thanks for everything you did for me. Forever the “goat!”