Thad Schultz

Thad Schultz

Director & Head Swim Coach

Thad Schultz brings 35 years of coaching experience across club, collegiate and international swimming to SPIRE Academy. Since joining SPIRE in 2015, he has helped swimmers develop their technique, prepare for competition and build the independence needed for college life.

Originally from Westerville, Ohio, Thad competed at West Virginia University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. His coaching career includes positions at Penn State, Ohio State and Clemson University, along with club programs including SwimMAC, Swim Columbia, Brunswick YWCA and the Fort Lauderdale Swim Team. Over his career, he has worked with Olympic swimmers, NCAA All-Americans, and state and sectional champions.

Thad’s approach emphasizes individual needs, technical development and consistent preparation. He combines work in the pool with varied training methods that keep swimmers engaged and encourage a supportive team environment.

His collegiate coaching experience also informs how he helps athletes prepare for their next step. Working alongside SPIRE’s college-planning team, he supports swimmers as they explore academic and athletic opportunities and learn to manage the responsibilities of being a college student-athlete.

For Thad, coaching extends beyond race results. Leadership, self-discipline, organization and teamwork are central to the progress he wants swimmers to carry into life beyond SPIRE.