Our Coaches & Staff
Our passionate coaches and dedicated staff are committed to guiding swimmers at every level—building skills, confidence, and character both in and out of the pool.
Passion. Experience. Diligence.
These three words define what Gold looks for when hiring staff for Chattahoochee Gold. Since the team’s founding in 1992, our goal has been to create a safe, educational environment where swimmers can thrive. This vision ensures consistency, quality, and a level of excellence that sets our team apart.
Chattahoochee Gold employs only certified, professional USA Swimming coaches. Every coach has completed specialized training for their role on deck and has passed a thorough national background check, so parents can have confidence in the care and expertise guiding their swimmers.
Gold Staff Directory
Mike Wardwell
Owner of Chattahoochee Gold and Head Coach at Mt. View
Coach Mike Wardwell, from Lowell, Massachusetts, is the Owner and Head Coach of Chattahoochee Gold Swim Team’s Cumming site. With 30 years of coaching experience, Mike has worked with swimmers across every level of the sport—from beginners to Olympic Trials qualifiers and national age group record holders. Over the course of his career, he has helped develop multiple programs into top-tier USA Swimming clubs across four different states and has served on the Georgia Swimming Board, contributing to the growth and governance of the sport at the LSC level. Mike first coached with Gold from 2011–2021 before returning in 2025 to take over the program.
Passionate about both excellence in swimming and building strong values in athletes, Mike is dedicated to fostering discipline, resilience, and a love for the sport in every swimmer. He is proud to lead Chattahoochee Gold, a program known for its excellence, history, and lasting impact on the swimming community. Outside of the pool, Mike enjoys life with his wife, Courtney, and their four dogs. A fun fact about him: he’s color blind—but claims to be a pretty good guesser.
Beth Murphy
Director of Operations for Cumming, Mt. View and Woodstock
Coach Beth Murphy, originally from Tupelo, MS, brings 26 years of coaching experience and a lifelong passion for swimming to Chattahoochee Gold, where she served as Head Coach, Age Group Coach, and Co-Owner alongside her husband, Pat, and now Director of Operations. A University of Southern Mississippi graduate and former competitive backstroker, Beth has guided countless swimmers to State and Sectional cuts while fostering a love for the sport and helping young athletes grow both in and out of the pool.
A dedicated mentor and proud mother, Beth creates an environment where swimmers develop confidence, teamwork, and lasting relationships. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes empathy, encouragement, and holistic development, ensuring athletes not only achieve their best times but also cultivate the skills and values that extend beyond swimming. Through her leadership, passion, and integrity, Coach Beth continues to inspire generations of swimmers and leave a lasting impact on the Chattahoochee Gold community.
Kim Duncan
Registration/Dues/Billing for Cumming, Mt. View, and Woodstock
Our administrator, Kim Duncan, has been a vital part of Chattahoochee Gold for over 18 years, bringing experience from her previous career in corporate management at Toys R Us. Based in Holly Springs, GA, and a University of Georgia graduate with a BA in Marketing, Kim oversees payments for both swim team and lesson accounts, manages swim team registration, and keeps our front desk at the Woodstock Aquatic Center running smoothly.
Kim’s connection to Gold is truly a family affair—she is a proud mother of four and grandmother to three, and her eldest swam on Gold for seven years. With her expertise, organization, and warm presence, Kim ensures everything behind the scenes operates seamlessly, supporting both our staff and our swimmers.
Denise Sturman
Registration/Dues/Billing for Kendron (Peachtree City)
Coach Denise has transitioned fully to the administrative side of Chattahoochee Gold, bringing her expertise and experience to support our team behind the scenes. She began coaching in 2006, working with swimmers at all training levels, and draws on her background as a competitive age group, collegiate, and Masters swimmer to provide knowledgeable guidance.
Currently, Denise helps new families navigate the ins and outs of competitive swimming, managing registration and billing, and ensuring a smooth experience for all of our Kendron swimmers (Peachtree City). Her experience, professionalism, and dedication make her an invaluable part of the Gold Family.
MYKA MURPHY
Socials and Branding Manager
Myka Murphy serves as the Socials and Branding Manager for Chattahoochee Gold, bringing creativity, strategy, and a keen eye for storytelling to the team’s communications. As the daughter of Pat and Beth Murphy, she has grown up immersed in the Gold community and understands the passion, dedication, and spirit that define the program.
In her role, Myka oversees social media, marketing campaigns, and brand initiatives, helping to connect swimmers, families, and the broader community while showcasing the achievements and culture of Chattahoochee Gold. Her experience, creativity, and insider perspective make her an invaluable part of the team, ensuring Gold’s message resonates both in and out of the pool.
Coaches at Cumming
MATT SANSPREE
Head Site Coach
Coach Matt Sanspree, from Gulf Shores, Alabama, is the Head Site Coach in Cumming. With 18 years of coaching experience, Matt has led athletes to the highest levels of success, including coaching a National Age Group Record Holder and guiding the nation’s #1 relay in the 400 freestyle during the 2024 long course season. He has been recognized as a Top 25 Age Group Coach by the American Swim Coaches Association (ASCA) and holds ASCA Level 4 and 5 certifications.
Passionate about giving back the same mentorship he once received, Matt is excited to bring his experience from programs like Santa Clara Swim Club to Chattahoochee Gold, an organization he admires for its commitment to excellence and community. Known for his leadership, enthusiasm, and ability to inspire athletes, Matt strives to help swimmers reach their fullest potential in and out of the water. Outside the pool, he enjoys family life with his wife Megan and their daughter Blake Catherine, cheering for Auburn sports, and taking care of their lively crew of pets—including three Great Danes and three cats, all named after Auburn alumni.
Mark Walleshauser
Coach
Coach Mark Walleshauser, from Marietta, Georgia, has been with Chattahoochee Gold for 6 years and brings 7 years of coaching experience to the Cumming location. Over his career, his swimmers have broken 32 team records across age groups from 10U to 17–18, earned multiple age group state, sectional, and senior state titles, and in 2024, Mark was recognized as one of the Top 50 Age Group Coaches in the U.S. by the American Swim Coaches Association (ASCA). A former collegiate swimmer and two-year team captain at Norwich University, he set multiple school records before moving into coaching.
Mark is passionate about the life lessons swimming teaches, believing true success lies in preparation and effort, not just results. He’s proud to be part of Chattahoochee Gold, where the program’s culture of excellence and growth mirrors his own coaching philosophy. Known for his dedication and positive energy, Mark creates an environment where athletes learn to push themselves in and out of the pool. Outside of swimming, he’s a devoted (and long-suffering) Atlanta Falcons fan.
Karen Carr
Coach
Coach Karen Carr, originally from Augusta, GA, has devoted more than five decades to shaping young swimmers and inspiring the next generation. With 53 years of coaching experience—including 19 with Chattahoochee Gold—Karen has left an enduring mark on the sport. A trailblazer in a historically male-dominated field, she has built her career on both expertise and perseverance, earning respect as a mentor, role model, and pioneer.
Her love for swimming runs deep, beginning in her own family and nurtured by early summers helping her father coach. Today, Karen especially enjoys working with 10 & unders, where she finds joy in watching swimmers grow not just as athletes but as responsible, confident kids. Outside the pool, she treasures time with her three children and expresses her creativity through knitting and crocheting. With her warmth, dedication, and lifelong passion for the sport, Coach Karen continues to inspire swimmers, families, and fellow coaches alike.
tommy eaton
Coach
Coach Tommy Eaton, from Cumming, Georgia, is a Coach at Chattahoochee Gold’s Cumming site. A former Chattahoochee Gold swimmer himself, Tommy is excited to return to the program in a coaching role. Now in his first year with Gold as a coach and second year of coaching overall, he brings strong competitive experience as a former Division I athlete. Highlights of his career include top-14 finishes at both the SEC Championships (University of South Carolina) and the U.S. Open, as well as holding the school record in the 200 butterfly at the University of Cincinnati.
Passionate about creating positive experiences for athletes, Tommy’s goal is to help swimmers stay engaged in the sport and discover the joy and confidence it can bring. He is proud to be part of Chattahoochee Gold once again—a program that shaped his own swimming journey and continues to be known for its supportive community and commitment to excellence. Outside of the pool, Tommy enjoys music and finding new ways to bring energy and fun into his work with athletes.
Tyler martin
Coach
Coach Tyler Martin is a Coach at Chattahoochee Gold Swim Club and brings over a decade of coaching experience to the program. He is entering his 5th season as Head Coach of the East Forsyth Swimming & Diving program and his 9th season overall as a head coach, having previously led North Forsyth’s program from 2017–2021 after three years as an assistant. A graduate of North Forsyth High School, he swam from 2008–2011 before continuing his education at the University of North Georgia, where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Health & Physical Education. In 2022, he completed his specialist degree in Advanced Educational Studies at Augusta University.
In addition to his coaching, Tyler is in his 9th year as a Health & PE teacher at East Forsyth, where he is passionate about helping students and athletes reach their fullest potential both in and out of the water. He is excited to be part of Chattahoochee Gold, a program he admires for its excellence, supportive community, and tradition of success at every level.
Our Coaches at kedRon (peachtree city)
becky noonan
Head Site Coach
Coach Becky Noonan is the Head Site Coach at Chattahoochee Gold’s Peachtree City location. She has been coaching since 2018 and joined Gold in July 2025 after eight years with Peachtree Aquatic Club, now part of Chattahoochee Gold. Becky is a USA Swimming Certified and ASCA Level 2 coach, and she currently leads the Silver Advanced and Gold Advanced groups. Over her coaching career, she has guided numerous swimmers to the Age Group State level and has also led summer league and Pirates programs at Kendron. A former high school swimmer, Becky brings additional experience as a lifeguard and water safety instructor, giving her a well-rounded perspective on both safety and performance.
Becky’s journey into coaching was inspired by her daughter’s involvement in the sport, and she is passionate about fostering the same love of swimming in young athletes. She is proud to be part of Chattahoochee Gold, a program known for its excellence, community, and commitment to growth at every level. Residing in Fayetteville with her husband, two daughters, and two dogs, Becky is known for her enthusiasm, dedication, and ability to create an encouraging environment where swimmers can thrive both in and out of the pool.
Carleigh Spann
Coach
Carleigh Spann brings over six years of coaching experience to Chattahoochee Gold, specializing in age group and high school swimmers. With coaching experience across both Texas and Georgia, she has developed a diverse and well-rounded approach to teaching stroke fundamentals and refining technique. A former club swimmer and high school athlete in both swimming and diving, Carleigh draws on her own experiences in the sport to connect with athletes and help them thrive at every level.
Carleigh’s coaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that swimming should be both rewarding and enjoyable. She fosters an environment where swimmers are encouraged to challenge themselves, build confidence, and pursue their goals, while also creating lasting memories and a love for the sport beyond the pool. At Chattahoochee Gold, she is excited to contribute to the team’s tradition of excellence, helping athletes grow as both swimmers and individuals while being part of a community that values dedication, character, and lifelong success.
Hugh cooper
Coach
Hugh Cooper, from Griffin, Georgia, has been coaching since 2017 and brings a wealth of experience in both swimming and endurance sports to Chattahoochee Gold. He has guided athletes to major milestones, from first national cuts to breakthroughs after tough seasons, always focusing on resilience and long-term growth. Hugh is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and an accomplished triathlete who has competed in events ranging from a 70.3 Ironman to a 50K ultramarathon, giving him a unique perspective on balancing training, competition, and life.
Hugh joined Gold because he believes in the program’s culture of excellence, support, and opportunity for athletes at every level. He values the team’s commitment to building confidence, character, and community through swimming, and is excited to contribute to that legacy. Known for his encouraging “You can do it” coaching style, Hugh partners with swimmers to set SMART goals, stay motivated, and discover just how far they can go — both in the pool and beyond. Fun fact: his all-time favorite competitive/sport show is Wipeout.
Staci watson
Coach
Staci Watson is a coach at our Kendron facility in Peachtree City and has been involved in swimming for as long as she can remember. Growing up in Florida and North Carolina, she competed at every level of the sport before swimming four years at the University of North Carolina, where one of her proudest achievements was winning the ACC Championship her senior year.
Staci’s coaching philosophy was shaped by her own experience with an inspiring coach who made the sport both fun and rewarding. She is passionate about helping swimmers develop strong fundamentals, grow in confidence, and discover their own love for the water. Dedicated to fostering a positive and encouraging environment, Staci enjoys working with athletes of all levels. Outside of coaching, she loves traveling with friends and family and is the proud mom of four grown children, all of whom participated in swimming. Staci is excited to be part of Chattahoochee Gold’s tradition of excellence, helping athletes thrive in a program that builds both skill and character.
Michelle richards
Coach
Coach Michelle Richards, originally from Baltimore, MD, is excited to lead the Intro to Gold and TFL groups this season. A former athlete herself, Michelle brings energy, encouragement, and a focus on strong fundamentals to help young swimmers grow in confidence and technique.
Michelle first supported Peachtree Aquatic Club (now Chattahoochee Gold) as Parent Liaison, assisting new and veteran families in navigating the swim season, and now brings that same dedication to the pool deck. A proud swim mom with three daughters on the team across different groups, she offers a unique perspective as both coach and parent. The Richards family has been part of our team for seven years, and Michelle looks forward to continuing her dual roles in supporting the growth and spirit of the team.
MADDIE HEDSTROM
Coach
Coach Madeline (Maddie) Hedstrom, from Minnetonka, Minnesota, is a Coach at Chattahoochee Gold’s Peachtree City location. Though new to Gold, she brings more than a decade of experience as a swim lesson instructor and a lifelong background in the sport. Maddie swam competitively for 12 years, including four years at the NCAA Division II level, and also competed in synchronized swimming for four years. She holds a BFA in Metalsmithing and Jewelry with a minor in Art History from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania (now PennWest). One of her favorite early coaching moments was helping a once-hesitant six-year-old grow confident enough to jump off the diving board and swim in the deep end.
Maddie loves the sport of swimming and the opportunity to help kids grow both as athletes and as people. She is excited to be part of Chattahoochee Gold, a program she admires for its strong community and commitment to excellence. Outside the pool, Maddie’s passions are just as colorful—she has fostered over 100 stray cats and kittens, plays roller derby with Southern Harm, and has a lifelong love of mermaids.
Our Coaches at Mountain View
MIKE WARDWELL
Owner/ Head Coach
Coach Mike Wardwell, from Lowell, Massachusetts, is the Owner and Head Coach of Chattahoochee Gold Swim Team’s Cumming site. With 30 years of coaching experience, Mike has worked with swimmers across every level of the sport—from beginners to Olympic Trials qualifiers and national age group record holders. Over the course of his career, he has helped develop multiple programs into top-tier USA Swimming clubs across four different states and has served on the Georgia Swimming Board, contributing to the growth and governance of the sport at the LSC level. Mike first coached with Gold from 2011–2021 before returning in 2025 to take over the program.
Passionate about both excellence in swimming and building strong values in athletes, Mike is dedicated to fostering discipline, resilience, and a love for the sport in every swimmer. He is proud to lead Chattahoochee Gold, a program known for its excellence, history, and lasting impact on the swimming community. Outside of the pool, Mike enjoys life with his wife, Courtney, and their four dogs. A fun fact about him: he’s color blind—but claims to be a pretty good guesser.
PENNY WALLESHAUSER
Coach
Coach Penny Walleshauser, originally from Hinsdale, IL, has dedicated 38 years to coaching—26 of them with Chattahoochee Gold—making a lasting impact on both the sport and her swimmers. A graduate of the University of South Florida with a degree in psychology, Penny combines her deep understanding of motivation with technical expertise to help athletes succeed. Under her guidance, swimmers have earned top-three finishes at State and Sectional levels, a reflection of her skill as both a coach and mentor.
Her passion for swimming extends beyond coaching; Penny herself competed at the 2019 Senior Games, placing in the top 10 across multiple events. Away from the pool, she enjoys sewing, rescuing dogs, and, above all, being a proud mom to two children. Her warmth, dedication, and lifelong love for swimming make her a role model not only for her athletes, but also for the entire Gold community.
HAYDEN KOSATER
Coach
Coach Hayden, from Macon, GA, brings championship experience and contagious passion to the Mountain View location. A graduate of Queens University of Charlotte with a degree in Exercise and Sport Science, he was a standout collegiate swimmer, helping lead his team to the 2015 NCAA Division II national title. His own accomplishments include three individual national championships and 16-time All-American honors, achievements that fuel his drive to help the next generation succeed. Since 2015, Hayden has coached at programs ranging from STAR Aquatics to Florida State University.
Now in his third year with Chattahoochee Gold, Hayden continues to bring that same dedication and winning mindset to his swimmers. Beyond the pool, he enjoys fitness, exploring the outdoors, building custom computers, video games, and cheering for Georgia sports. His blend of expertise, energy, and mentorship creates an environment where swimmers are inspired to reach their full potential in and out of the water.
Nicole lavigna
Coach
Nicole LaVigna brings four years of coaching experience to Chattahoochee Gold, where she works with the Gold, Sectionals, and Senior groups at the Mountain View site. Originally from Saratoga Springs, New York, Nicole has been involved in the sport for over a decade as both an athlete and coach. With 12 years of competitive swimming experience and more than six years dedicated to teaching swim lessons, she has a strong foundation in both technique and athlete development. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology through Clayton State University, balancing her academic goals with her passion for coaching.
Nicole’s coaching philosophy is deeply influenced by her own mentor growing up, who continues to inspire her approach today. She focuses on creating a positive, technique-driven environment where swimmers of all levels can build confidence, reach milestones such as state qualifications, and grow into strong, resilient athletes. At Chattahoochee Gold, she is excited to contribute to the program’s culture of excellence and community, helping swimmers discover both success in the pool and a love for the sport that lasts a lifetime. Fun fact: Nicole lived in Alaska for four years as a kid!
Henry bethel
Coach
Coach Henry Bethel, from Dalton, Georgia, is in his first year with Chattahoochee Gold. A standout swimmer at Auburn University, Henry was a two-time U.S. Olympic Trials qualifier (2021 and 2024), earned All-American honors in his junior and senior seasons, and served as team captain his senior year. In high school, he set GHSA state records in the 200 IM and 100 breaststroke before moving on to compete at the SEC level. He graduated with a degree in History and a minor in Sports Coaching while also being named to the SEC Honor Roll each year.
Inspired by the impact his own coaches had on him and his teammates, Henry is passionate about mentoring the next generation of swimmers and helping them succeed both in and out of the pool. He is excited to be part of Chattahoochee Gold, a program known for developing athletes at every level while fostering a supportive team culture. Outside of swimming, Henry co-owns a business with his brother and once competed on his high school’s quartet team, showcasing his talents beyond athletics.
Ethan wolovick
Coach
Coach Ethan, from Marietta, GA, brings dedication, leadership, and passion for swimming to Chattahoochee Gold, where he is now in his fourth year. A graduate of Kennesaw State with a Professional Education Certificate from Georgia Tech, he has been coaching for seven years. As an athlete himself, Ethan was named to the NJCAA All-American Team and proudly served as Team Captain, experiences that shaped his commitment to mentoring young swimmers.
Ethan’s coaching philosophy is rooted in the positive influence his own coaches had on his life. He strives to inspire athletes not only to succeed in the pool but also to grow in confidence, resilience, and character. Known for his love of Disney, Ethan brings a sense of joy and energy to the pool deck, creating a welcoming environment where swimmers feel both supported and motivated. His blend of technical knowledge, personal experience, and enthusiasm makes him a role model for athletes striving to reach their goals.
CAIDEN LEWIS
Coach
Caiden Lewis brings seven years of coaching experience to Chattahoochee Gold, where he coaches at both the Mountain View Aquatic Center and Woodstock locations. Originally from Marietta, Georgia, Caiden has been part of the Gold family for three years and continues to grow as both an athlete and coach. As a swimmer, he medaled in all of his high school state events across four consecutive years, earned MVP honors twice, and went on to compete for Kennesaw State University. Today, one of his proudest achievements is coaching the next generation of swimmers and sharing his love for the sport.
Caiden’s coaching philosophy is shaped by the positive role models he had as a young swimmer. His coaches created an environment where athletes felt supported, motivated, and heard, and he strives to bring that same approach to his swimmers. At Chattahoochee Gold, he is dedicated to helping athletes improve both in the pool and in life, encouraging them to work hard while building confidence and strong connections along the way. Fun fact: outside of swimming, Caiden spent over four years working on a farm!
Our Coaches at Woodstock
Mark Schilling
Head Site Coach
Coach Mark Schilling, from Summerville, South Carolina, serves as the Head Coach of Chattahoochee Gold’s Woodstock site and has been with the program for 27 years. With three decades of coaching experience, Mark has guided swimmers to Olympic Trials qualifiers in each of the last four Olympic cycles, was named Georgia Senior Coach of the Year in 2018, and served as a USA National Team coach from 2018–2022. A former Georgia Tech swimmer and three-year letterman with a degree in Computer Science, Mark combines competitive insight with a long-standing commitment to athlete development.
Dedicated to making Chattahoochee Gold the best team possible, Mark is known for his leadership, technical expertise, and ability to inspire swimmers to pursue excellence. Beyond the pool, he enjoys family life with his wife Leann and their sons John and Max, and he cultivates a collection of over 50 orchid varieties. His passion, both in coaching and in life, reflects the balance of discipline, growth, and care that he brings to Chattahoochee Gold every day.
Bobby hammond
Coach
Coach Bobby Hammond, from Flanders, New Jersey, brings passion, dedication, and competitive experience to Chattahoochee Gold’s Woodstock location, where he has coached age group swimmers for the past four years. With nearly nine years of coaching experience, Bobby has guided swimmers to first-time sectional and state qualifications and served as a New Jersey Zones Coach, demonstrating his ability to develop talent and inspire young athletes.
A former member of Team USA and a 12-time USA Triathlon All-American, Bobby’s competitive achievements reflect his discipline, drive, and love for athletics. Outside the pool, he embraces his adventurous spirit—he once dreamed of becoming a professional stock car driver—and channels that energy into mentoring swimmers. Known for his dedication, guidance, and enthusiasm, Coach Bobby creates an environment where athletes learn, grow, and are motivated to reach their fullest potential both in and out of the water.
Alex Bartik
Coach