Today the University of Arkansas announced Neil Harper as the new head coach of the swimming and diving team. Harper has just finished his first year at the University of Nevada.
The Razorback’s Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Jeff Long said, “Throughout his career, Neil has distinguished himself, first as as student-athlete in the Southeastern Conference and then as a head coach at several prominent Division I institutions.”
Harper has coached in the collegiate ranks for 23 years. At Nevada this season, his team finished 20th at NCAAs. The team’s performance was highlighted by Sharae Zhang who earned CSCAA Diver of the Year honors, and the presence of a relay, a rare feat among mid-majors. Additionally, he led the Wolf Pack to a 7-0 record and the Mountain West Conference Championship.
“This is an amazing opportunity for me and my family. The University of Arkansas provides a great venue for the best student-athletes in the country to come challenge themselves both athletically and academically. The facilities and services afforded to Razorback student-athletes are second to none, and I am excited and honored to be part of the Razorback Tradition and Family,” said Neil.
Before Nevada, Harper was with the Aiken-August Swim League and spent over a decade as the head coach at Florida State. At FSU, he was a three time ACC Coach of the Year.
The University of Arkansas contributed to this report.
Emma Payne???
Yeah, it’s really sad. We got told yesterday ???
No good. You really need to stop driving these coaches away!!!
I know ? I’ve had so many coaches leave on me, I’m going to have serious trust issues. At first I wasn’t even surprised he was leaving, then it was really sad when I went and said bye
You just have to big of a personality for anyone to handle for long periods!!! I’m sure you will get another good replacement
I hear they struggled to find someone
Neil’s timing was perfect. The swim team was peaking just as he came onboard. He doesn’t coach the diving team. Nevada has had a strong swim team for years there will be plenty of coaches applying for the position.