Converse Announces Swim Coaching Transition
Converse College announces that Corey White, assistant coach for the Valkyries swim team, has been promoted to head swim coach. White takes over the position after two years as the program’s graduate assistant coach and plans to build upon the early success of the three-year-old program established by head coach Susan Kunkler.
“Converse hired Coach White with the intention that he would grow under Susan and eventually lead our program,” said athletic director Joy Couch. “During his time here, Coach White has been vital as a recruiter and in working with our team on all aspects of their training. We anticipate a seamless transition for our program.”
White has had the opportunity to swim for and learn from many renowned coaches throughout his career including Kyle Schack of Northwestern University and Matt Pearce of Grand Blanc High School, who have produced numerous All-Americans at the college and high school level.
“I am excited to continue to build upon the success Coach Kunkler and I have established over the past two years,” commented White. “I’ve learned from Coach Kunkler about how to inspire young people in and out of the pool, which is what makes average coaches and programs into great ones. Her passion was infectious to me and our team, and for that I’ll forever be grateful and honored to have worked alongside her.”
Kunkler started the swim program during the 2008-2009 academic year, and quickly elevated it by joining the Bluegrass Mountain Conference. During her three years as head coach, the Valkyries have seen eight All-Conference performers and two swimmers compete in the NCAA Division II National Championships.
The Valkyries made a huge splash in the 2010-2011 campaign, with an undefeated dual-meet season and a fourth place finish in the Bluegrass Mountain Conference Championships. They also had the first All-American performance in Converse College history with freshman Rhiannon Gluhosky earning honorable mention All-American in the 1650 yard freestyle.
“These past three years have been an incredible journey and a very special part of my life and career,” said Kunkler. “This program is poised for greatness, and Corey is ready to lead it.”
“Susan is a dear friend and supporter of Converse Athletics,” stated Couch. “It is impossible to measure the impact that she has had on our athletics department, and the growth that she has brought during her tenure. She will be missed by the entire Converse community.”