Phoebe Campbell takes over a program that was nearly eliminated three months ago
By Bill Cornwell
Marshall University Athletics has found a new leader for its women’s swimming and diving program.
Phoebe Campbell, an assistant coach at the University of Akron, is coming to Huntington to replace Ian Walsh, who recently left Marshall to become head coach of the men’s and women’s swimming and diving programs at the University of Pittsburgh.
Campbell will officially be introduced at a news conference scheduled for June 30 at the Joan C. Edwards Stadium Dutch Miller Deck.
Campbell’s hiring comes amid the recent uncertainty surrounding Marshall’s swimming and diving program. The university’s Board of Governors initially approved the program’s elimination in February because of cost and Title IX concerns. The addition of a varsity stunt program also was approved at that time. The board reversed course in March and reinstated swimming and diving after it was determined that Marshall could violate Title IX scholarship requirements for female student-athletes.
Marshall Vice President and Director of Athletics Gerald Harrison said Campbell was the best candidate to lead Marshall’s swimmers and divers during a critical time for the program.
“Today is another great day to run with The Herd as we proudly welcome Phoebe Campbell to Marshall University as the next head swimming and diving coach,” Harrison said. “Throughout our national search, we were intentional about identifying a coach who embodies the values of our Herd Mentality — someone who puts student-athletes first, builds meaningful relationships, recruits relentlessly and competes with integrity. We weren’t looking for the next coach; we were looking for the right coach, and we believe Phoebe Campbell is exactly that.”
Campbell served as recruiting coordinator and handled team operations for an Akron program that has won five consecutive Mid-American Conference titles.
“I want to thank Athletic Director Gerald Harrison and President Brad Smith for believing in my ability to lead the women’s swimming and diving team,” Campbell said. “I am committed to adding to the rich history of Marshall University and the excellence of its student-athletes. I am humbled and excited by this amazing opportunity to work with people so committed to the success and well-being of their student-athletes. The tight-knit community that Marshall is known for makes this an easy place to call home.”
Campbell previously held coaching positions at the University of New Mexico, Texas A&M University, Ball State University and Vassar College. She swam collegiately at Henderson State University in Arkadelphia, Arkansas.
University of Akron head swimming and diving coach Brian Peresie said he is excited about the opportunity for his former assistant.
“Phoebe has been a tremendous part of our program, and I could not be more excited for her as she takes this next step in her coaching career,” Peresie said. “She has a strong coaching mind, a great ability to build relationships and a sincere commitment to helping student-athletes become the best version of themselves. Marshall is getting a high-character leader who will bring energy, purpose and care to the program every day.”