Kershaw Named Team USA Manager for Rio 2016
CORAL GABLES, Fla. – University of Miami head swimming coach Andy Kershaw was selected as head manager for USA Swimming in preparation for next summer’s Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games, it was announced Wednesday.
Rio 2016 will mark Kershaw’s second straight Olympics as USA Swimming’s head manager; he also served in the capacity at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
Kershaw, now in his third season at the helm of the Hurricanes, was team manager at the 2015 FINA World Championships in Kazan, Russia this past summer and the 2011 FINA World Championships in Shanghai, China.
“It’s super exciting. Anytime you can represent your country in any way, it’s an awesome opportunity,” he said. “In this regard, being part of arguably the best sports team in the world in USA Swimming, it’s a very special thing. I feel very honored.”
Kershaw said his three years as head of the Hurricanes program helped him in his candidacy, and expects that the ideas and techniques gained working with USA Swimming will benefit his own team in Coral Gables.
“It’s a testament to the current team here,” Kershaw said. “I certainly wouldn’t have been given this opportunity if the team wasn’t here making an impression on people.”
Kershaw said his three years as head coach in Miami will have him even more prepared for his second stint as head manager at Rio 2016.
“I’ll be coming at it from a different point of view as a head coach, and the experiences I’ve had here in Miami,” he said. “I think that will put me in better position to prepare and help support the athletes that are there to win medals. That’s the great thing about it – you get to be there to help them accomplish their goals. Anytime you can be a part of that, that’s special.”
Kershaw will be assisted by Stefanie Kerska.
“Our support staff plays a vital role in the success of Team USA at international events. The expertise in their roles allows our athletes and coaches to focus on competing at the highest level,” USA Swimming National Team Director Frank Busch said. “This group has earned the trust of our staff, athletes and coaches, and I am confident they’ll help prepare our athletes to shine next summer in Rio.”
For the full release from USA Swimming, click HERE.
