CSUB taps long-time coach to lead swim, dive program

CSUB taps long-time coach to lead swim, dive program

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — California State Bakersfield Athletics has hired a new director to lead its swimming and diving program.

Shane Pelton will be joining the university with nearly two decades of coaching experience with the National Collegiate Athletics Association, which includes 10 years of coaching in the California State University system.

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Pelton also served as the head assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the university for the 2015-2016 season.

CSUB’s Acting Director of Athletics Sarah Tuohy said with his history with the university, Pelton understands what makes CSUB a place special and has a genuine passion for Bakersfield.

“He is deeply committed to connecting this program back to our community, and I am confident he will lead with integrity, energy, and purpose as we move forward,” Tuohy said in a statement on Friday.

In a statement, Stanzi McGowan, CSUB’s associate athletic director, said she “feels confident” that Pelton will help the team “grow and develop.”

“As someone who grew up in Bakersfield and understands what this program has meant to our local swim community, this hire is especially meaningful to me,” McGowan said. “Shane brings the experience, energy, and relationship-centered leadership we were seeking, and I am confident he is the right person to lead our program forward. I believe he will build strong connections with our student-athletes, alumni, and the broader Bakersfield community as we work to strengthen the future of CSUB Swimming and Diving.”

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Outside of his experience in California, Pelton coached at Arizona State University and the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut.

Pelton said the swim and dive program at the university “was once a powerhouse” and that it can be restored.

“You can see the impact this place has, especially the lifetime friendships and relationships built on this pool deck. For me, it’s about re-engaging alumni, getting them back involved, and making sure our current athletes understand what they’re a part of,” Pelton said. “We want to create opportunities for them to be present, feel connected, and be proud of where we’re headed.”