World Record Holder Coleman Stewart Joins Duke as an Assistant Coach

Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick

World Record Holder Coleman Stewart Joins Duke as an Assistant Coach

Newly retired world record holder Coleman Stewart will begin his college coaching career as an assistant at Duke University, the school announced Monday.

Stewart joins the staff of new director of swimming and diving Brian Barnes.

“I am thrilled to be joining Brian’s staff and Duke Athletics,” Stewart said in a university statement. “Duke’s a one-of-a-kind student-athlete experience and the legacy of excellence is something our staff is looking forward to continuing and enhancing. With Brian at the helm, this program is going to grow at a tremendous rate, and I am so excited to be a part of it.”

Stewart’s career blossomed not far away at NC State, where Barnes was an assistant coach. Stewart announced his retirement in May, after a career in which he set the men’s 100 backstroke short-course world record during his time in the International Swimming League. He also was part of an American record 400 medley relay.

Stewart’s illustrious career included a bronze medal in the 100 butterfly at the 2019 World University Games, 22 All-America nods, 13 ACC Championships and NCAA titles in the 100 back and 400 free relay in 2018. The two-time ACC Men’s Swimmer of the Year and two-time ACC Championships Most Outstanding Swimmer did the 100 back-200 back double three straight years at ACCs.

“I welcome Coleman and his wife Olivia into the Duke family,” Barnes said. “This has been a rewarding process for me. My goal is to surround this team with highly motivated ambitious coaches, but most importantly people of great character. After spending the past few years around Coleman, I am certain Duke Swimming and Diving is getting a quality coach and person.”

Stewart swam professionally in Raleigh for three years at NC State. He began coaching as an assistant with the Marlins of Raleigh and the head coach of the Hawthorne Stingrays. Stewart graduated from NC State in 2021 with a degree in business administration and a minor in coaching.

“Coleman’s swimming career went from a college walk-on to a World Record holder in the span of five years,” Barnes said. “His story is a perfect example of what can happen when hard work meets opportunity. I am excited to add a coach who has an elite understanding of technique and skill who has backed it up in record fashion.”

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