As the 2024-25 season begins, Hoban’s Swim and Dive team is making waves with a new head coach at the helm. Former Hoban swimmer Abigail Adaway, a 2019 graduate, has stepped up to lead the Knights through the water.
Adaway brings over 15 years of competitive swimming experience, having been a member of teams such as Hudson Explorers Aquatics Team (HEAT), Cuyahoga Falls YMCA Natatorium (CFYN), and Ohio Wesleyan University. Her extensive background equips her with a unique perspective, allowing her to tailor her coaching methods to her athletes’ needs. While she has prior coaching experience, this marks her first time leading a high school team. With support from former Hoban swim coach Nicholas Meyer and several former teammates, Adaway has worked diligently to organize a compelling season.
“They’ve all been super great! People I swam with in college who are also coaching have all reached out to me. We’re all helping with practices and ensuring we have the season curated correctly,” Adaway said.
As the team completes its first weeks of practice, routines begin to take shape, offering a glimpse of the months ahead. While transitioning to new leadership always comes with challenges, Adaway is focused on creating a supportive environment and building strong relationships with her athletes.
“I think we’re still in the process of getting to know each other and building relationships. The biggest challenge right now is getting to know each other’s strengths,” she said. Despite the adjustment period, Adaway is confident in the team’s progress and is committed to fostering a culture of mutual support.
Adaway’s primary goal for the season is to help each swimmer surpass their current skill level. She aims to balance competitive success and personal satisfaction, encouraging her athletes to define and achieve their milestones.
“For some, it’s being able to swim a legal race of each stroke; for others, it might be getting a season-best time. I just want everybody to feel like they’ve individually succeeded this season,” she explained.
Whether swimming freestyle, backstroke, or breaststroke, these Knights are ready to leave their competitors in their wake. With a promising season ahead, Hoban Swim and Dive are set to make a splash at their first meet on Dec. 3 at University School. Be sure to show up and cheer on your fellow Knights as they cannonball into the competition!
