Daisy Platts and Tyler Watson have been appointed as assistant coaches, as announced by Matthew Jabs, the head coach of the swimming and diving team in his seventh year, on Wednesday afternoon.
“While it’s been challenging to lose two outstanding coaches this summer, I am grateful that both of our former assistants left East Carolina University in a better state,” Jabs remarked.
“As we move ahead, I am thrilled to welcome Daisy and Tyler to our staff. They are both ambitious young coaches eager to make a meaningful impact in the sport. Their accomplished athletic careers have given them a wealth of experience to share with our current and future student-athletes. Throughout the interview process, they showcased energy, enthusiasm, and unique insights into the sport that will greatly benefit our team. I look forward to collaborating with them as we continue to develop the program.”
Platts, hailing from Leicester, England, joins Greenville after working with Auburn University’s swimming staff, where she coached various groups and gained essential administrative experience while earning her master’s degree in kinesiology.
As an athlete, Platts began her journey at Bowling Green State University, where she became a six-time MAC Champion, a two-time NCAA Championship participant (2021-22), and served as team captain in 2022, setting seven school records. After receiving her undergraduate degree in exercise science in May 2022, she transferred to Auburn, finishing fourth in the 200 backstroke, 17th in the 100 backstroke, and 23rd in the 200 IM at the 2024 SEC Championships. She capped her collegiate career by competing in the 100 and 200 backstrokes at the NCAA Championships.
Watson, originally from Jacksonville, Florida, swam for five seasons at the Division I level, representing the University of Florida (2019-23) and the University of Louisville (2024). During his time at Florida, he qualified for the NCAA Championships three times, earned All-American honors twice, was selected to the All-SEC second team twice, and contributed to three SEC Championship teams.
A two-time Olympic Trials qualifier (2021 and 2024), Watson made nine SEC appearances, notably finishing third in the 1650 freestyle in 2022, and graduated with a degree in sports management. While at Louisville, he competed in the 2024 AAC Championships as a three-event finalist. Throughout his college career, he also gained coaching experience with the Gator Swim Club and North Florida Swimming Inc., working with senior and national level groups. Watson is anticipated to earn his master’s degree in sports administration from Louisville in December 2024.
What Others Are Saying About Platts:
“ECU is gaining an outstanding competitor, coach, and individual in Daisy. She will bring remarkable strength, passion, energy, and empathy to the pool deck each day. I can’t wait to see the positive influence she will have on the athletic and personal development of ECU’s student-athletes.”
—Ryan Wochomurka,
Head Coach Swimming & Diving,
University of Auburn
What Others Are Saying About Watson:
“Tyler was certainly a highly accomplished swimmer, but what stood out most was his willingness to help younger swimmers on our team with their techniques and races, even as the top performer. After going off to college and achieving All-American status, he consistently returned to support our kids at meets and volunteered his time with our team whenever he was back in town. Tyler has a deep understanding of stroke mechanics, and I am very excited for him to embark on a coaching career. I believe he will excel in this role.”
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