Marshall Names Phoebe Campbell Head Coach of Women’s Swim & Dive Program
Marshall University has selected Phoebe Campbell as the new head coach of its women’s swimming and diving program, Vice President and Director of Athletics Gerald J. Harrison announced Thursday.
Harrison said the university conducted an extensive national search focused on finding a leader who reflects Marshall’s student-athlete-centered culture, emphasizing strong relationships, recruiting success, and integrity. He expressed confidence that Campbell is the ideal choice to guide the program into its next chapter.
Campbell will officially be introduced during a press conference on June 30 at Joan C. Edwards Stadium.
In a statement, Campbell thanked Harrison and Marshall President Brad Smith for the opportunity. She said she is eager to contribute to Marshall’s tradition of excellence and is excited to join a community known for its strong support of student-athletes.
Campbell arrives at Marshall after serving as an assistant coach at University of Akron, where she played a key role in recruiting, daily operations, and helping the Zips capture their fifth straight Mid-American Conference championship. Her coaching résumé also includes stops at University of New Mexico, Texas A&M University, and Vassar College, along with experience coaching elite club swimmers.
The Marshall position marks Campbell’s first opportunity as a collegiate head coach. She credited several mentors throughout her career—including Akron’s Brian Peresie, New Mexico’s Naya Higashijima, Arizona and Texas A&M coach Jay Holmes, and Vassar’s Lisl Prater-Lee—for helping prepare her for the role.
Harrison highlighted Campbell’s diverse coaching background, recruiting ability, leadership skills, and vision for developing student-athletes both in competition and in the classroom. He said her energy and commitment make her well-suited to lead the program forward.
Campbell has also earned recognition within the coaching profession, including selection to the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America Coaches Academy in 2025 and being named an American Swimming Coaches Association “30 Under 30” award recipient in 2023.
Before entering coaching, Campbell was a standout swimmer and team captain at Henderson State University.
Several of Campbell’s former colleagues praised the hire. Akron head coach Brian Peresie described her as a strong leader with an exceptional ability to connect with athletes and help them reach their potential. Assistant coach Jay Holmes commended her work ethic and positive attitude, while New Mexico head coach Naya Higashijima praised her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to student-athlete development.
Marshall officials believe Campbell’s experience and approach will help build on the program’s foundation as she begins a new era leading the Thundering Herd’s swimming and diving team.
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