Our History: The Legacy of the Mudpuppies Swim Team

The Mudpuppies Swim Team was founded in 2010 by Coach Brian Goldman to share his passion for swimming and foster a sense of community. While Coach Brian is no longer with us on the pool deck, his vision continues to thrive—a cherished family tradition celebrating togetherness, inclusivity, and personal growth through swimming.

What It Means to Be a Mudpuppy

To be a Mudpuppy means to embrace personal improvement and strive for your best. Our team’s mission is rooted in helping each swimmer refine their technique and achieve faster times over the season. This focus on self-betterment, supported by the guidance of dedicated coaches and the encouragement of fellow teammates, has been the cornerstone of our success since day one.

Our coaches inspire a love of swimming, prioritize skill development, and foster a positive environment where swimmers can focus on achieving their goals. Mudpuppies are known for their spirit and teamwork, cheering on one another every step of the way. Meanwhile, parents—an integral part of our community—volunteer in various roles at meets, from judging to organizing events. Together, we create a supportive and thriving swim team culture.

The Mudpuppies Swim Team is more than just a team—it’s a community, a tradition, and a celebration of swimming that unites families and creates lifelong memories. Together, we honor the legacy of those who have shaped our team and look forward to many more seasons of growth, success, and joy.

Our Founding Coach: Brian Goldman

Coach Brian Goldman was a beloved leader whose ability to bring out the best in others, both in swimming and in life, left a lasting impact. From our youngest “Pups” to senior swimmers, Brian’s enthusiasm and charisma energized the team. Whether rallying everyone with the Mudpuppy cheer or providing encouragement on the pool deck, he was the heart of the Mudpuppies.

Starting with just three dozen swimmers, Brian’s vision of a close-knit, supportive team grew into a thriving community that continues to flourish each year. His legacy remains at the core of everything we do.

Our Second Head Coach: Tom Beck

Coach Tom Beck joined the Mudpuppies with an impressive background as a seasoned swim coach and competitive open water swimmer. Together with his wife Thao and daughter Claire, Tom immersed himself in leading the team for five incredible years. Under his guidance, the Mudpuppies rose to the highest division in the Tarheel Swimming Association (TSA), with many swimmers going on to join year-round teams in the area.

Tom’s passion for swimming and commitment to the team left an indelible mark, and while he has since retired from coaching, he is often found at meets, cheering on his former “Pups” and celebrating their success.

Our Third Head Coach: Thor Dyke

A Mudpuppy from the very beginning, Coach Thor Dyke swam for the team’s inaugural season and continued as a competitive swimmer for the TAC Titans. Thor brought his love for the sport and his coaching experience to the Mudpuppies, guiding swimmers with the same enthusiasm and dedication he showed as a competitor.

During his tenure as head coach, Thor combined his expertise and passion to support swimmers of all levels, fostering growth both in and out of the pool.