About this episode
Matt Kredich has helped to create a culture of accountability within the University of Tennessee’s swim program and as their school heads into the Southeastern Conference Championships — their women’s team has come out as a favorite to bring home the championship. Listen in as Matt shares his thoughts on college coaching and recruiting. He dives into what has led to the more recent success with his teams, sharing his approach to creating a team that can thrive together. Hear why American college culture is sometimes at odds with what is needed to foster exceptional athletes and how his teams are going against the grain to get results. “If you, as a coach, are willing to get rid of some things that you're attached to or at least examine them, then you can be open to learn new things.” - Matt Kredich [18:34] Key Takeaways: Matt Kredich’s strategy for team building. How he balances recruiting and coaching. Ways his teams are pushing each other. Why a swimmer would choose the University of Tennessee. Episode Timeline: [00:28] Intro [00:54] University of Tennessee SEC Championship outlook [01:46] Why this year is different for the women’s team [2:57] What's behind these changes? [04:55] How the women on the team are holding each other accountable [08:41] Is there a culture of excuses for college students? [13:42] What Matt looks for in swimmers [17:31] The importance of never coasting along [20:00] Changes and new challenges in swimming [24:58] Potential Olympians on his team [28:] What sets the University of Tennessee apart [32:06] Outro Key Quotes: “One of the first things we as coaches tell our athletes is that we're not asking you to be normal. We're asking you to be very abnormal. At the highest levels of performance in anything, you see a degree of abnormality." - Matt Kredich [10:32] “One of our jobs as coaches and the jobs of teammates, as leaders, is to remind people of what they're capable of and sometimes that's uncomfortable— but it should ultimately be inspiring." - Matt Kredich [13:29] “If you, as a coach, are willing to get rid of some things that you're attached to or at least examine them, then you can be open to learn new things.” - Matt Kredich [18:34] Connect: Find | Brett Hawke At fitterandfaster.com On Instagram @hawkebr Find | Matt Kredich At UTsports.com On Instagram: @mkredich On Twitter: @mkredich Subscribe & Listen: Apple Podcasts Google Spotify YouTube Special Thanks: Inside with Brett Hawke is presented by Fitter & Faster. Host a swim camp. More than 1,000 swim clinic sessions in 46 States plus Canada & the Bahamas in 2019. Inside with Brett Hawke is produced and promoted by Swimnerd . Connect your phone to your pace clock with the Swimnerd Pace Clock . Digital, affordable, and Bluetooth programmable from your smartphone.