The University of Miami in Florida has hired Andy Kershaw as their new head women’s swimming coach, with Christie Shefchunas’ tenure officially ending July 1st.
Kershaw comes from SMU, where he spent 10 years as an assistant with the men’s team and was titled as the Associate Head Coach. During his time at SMU, Kershaw took advantage of huge networking opportunities, as he also served as head manager for USA Swimming at the 2012 Olympics, the 2011 World Championships, the 2010 Pan Pac Games, and the 2009 Duel in the Pool.
“I want to thank Blake and [Senior Associate Athletics Director/Senior Woman Administrator] Jennifer Strawley for giving me this opportunity,” Kershaw said. “It has been obvious during this process that they are building a great department that is motivated to provide a great experience for the student-athletes, alumni and fans. While they are determined to succeed at the highest level, it is apparent that their dedication to the Miami student-athletes goes far beyond the athletic arena.”
Among those who spoke highly of the hire was Cal women’s coach, and U.S. Olympic Team head coach, Teri McKeever.“I think he is an incredible person,” said the coaching legend. “He is very people-oriented, a great communicator, proactive and very driven. Andy is committed to the sport and to developing young people.”
Prior to a decade at SMU, Kershaw was an assistant at Ohio in his native state.
During his time at SMU, Kershaw coached 79 All-Americans, and the men’s team finished in the country’s top 25 six times. Miami will be a different experience for him, as he will coach an all-women’s team. The Hurricanes finished 20th at last year’s NCAA Championships, but Kershaw will have some work to do to rebuild depth in the program.
Both coaches of the elite Miami diving program, Randy Ableman and Dario di Fazio, are returning. Both the former head coach, Shefchunas, and the former assistant coach, Aaron Ciarla, have left the sport after parting ways with Miami. Shefchunas cited a desire to focus more on family and her ministry, while Ciarla is pursuing other business opportunities.