SPASH hires new boys swim coach

By Patrick Lynn

Stevens Point Area Senior High (SPASH) has announced the appointment of Phil Potter, a former standout in SPASH swimming, as the new Varsity Boys Swim Coach.

Potter previously held the position of head coach for the girls’ program and also served as an assistant coach for the boys’ program.

He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the swim program. The 2006 graduate of SPASH achieved 7-time individual first-team all-conference and 3-time honorable mention all-state recognitions in swimming.

Following high school, Potter competed at the Division 1 level during his freshman year at North Carolina State University, earning a spot on the ACC All-Academic team. Potter continued his collegiate career at St. Cloud State University before returning to Wisconsin.

Potter ultimately graduated from the UW-Stevens Point with a degree in psychology. During his time at UWSP, he served as the assistant boys’ swim coach and head girls’ swim coach at SPASH. In 2010, Potter was honored as the Wisconsin Valley Conference Co-Coach of the Year for girls’ swimming.

Currently, Potter holds the position of Hospitality Director at the Wisconsin Lions Foundation, Inc. in Rosholt.

“I am extremely honored and excited to assume the role of the head boys’ swim coach at SPASH,” Potter said in a press statement. “To be a part of the program in which I once competed and now to lead as the head coach is truly humbling.”

Athletic Director David Hauser said the district was lucky to have Potter on staff.

“He possesses a wealth of experience as both a competitive swimmer and a former head coach,” Hauser said. “Furthermore, he brings a deep passion for the sport and a strong desire to elevate the Stevens Point program to prominence. We are thrilled that he is willing to share this with our student-athletes.”