DeSorbo Named USOPC 2023 College Coach of the Year
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) announced today (May 9) Virginia men’s swimming and diving head coach Todd DeSorbo as its 2023 College Coach of the Year.
The USOPC recognized DeSorbo for his dedication to Team USA ideals and excellence in coaching. Through his contributions to USA Swimming, staff and athlete community, DeSorbo was identified as a leader who is making a significant difference in the lives of athletes, on and off the field of play.
The USOPC College Coach of the Year is selected from a pool of candidates nominated by each National Governing Body. Each NGB can nominate one individual in the College Coach category for their respective sport. DeSorbo was nominated by USA Swimming and selected as the national winner among the finalists from all sports.
In 2023, DeSorbo’s leadership helped propel the Virginia swimming and diving program to unprecedented success, Under his guidance, Virginia’s women’s team achieved back-to-back-to-back NCAA Championships from 2021 to 2023, while the men finished in the top 10 for three consecutive years. In 2023, his coaching skills were further exemplified as UVA senior Kate Douglass clinched the College Swimming & Diving Coaches Association of America Women’s Swimmer of the Meet title, winning all three individual events and contributing to four of UVA’s five relay NCAA championships.
By winning its third consecutive NCAA title in 2023, UVA became just the fifth program in history to achieve that milestone. DeSorbo’s coaching philosophy, which emphasizes holistic training encompassing physical, mental, and lifestyle aspects, has earned him the head coach position for USA Swimming’s Olympic women’s swimming team at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. His unique approach, characterized by a balance of hard work, enjoyment, and support, has fostered a team culture where athletes feel empowered and motivated, contributing to both individual and team successes.
“Our coaches and support staff are the backbone of Team USA, driving success from the grassroots level to the global stage,” said Rocky Harris, USOPC chief of sport and athlete services. “Their tireless efforts continue to elevate our athletes, their National Governing Bodies and Team USA as a whole. As we applaud the remarkable accomplishments of 2023, we gratefully commend all eight individual award winners and their steadfast dedication to excellence in and around their sport.”