Get to Know Army Head Coach Mickey Wender

by Josh Huger (MrUtopia)

This interview is with the United States Military Academy’s Mickey Wender. Coach Wender, who is in his sixth season at Army, has enjoyed many successes while with the Black Knights.

During his time with the program his swimmers have reached the Olympic Games, broken national records, won individual Patriot League Championship titles, achieved All-Patriot League recognition, and qualified for Olympic Trials.

In this SwimUtopia interview Coach Wender tells us about his biggest accomplishment so far in coaching and what he does to motivate his swimmers.

Let’s get started!


What team do you currently coach for?

The United States Military Academy. West Point, NY- the ARMY team.

How many years have you been with the team?

This is my sixth season.

What made you choose to take the coaching position?

I cherish the opportunity to serve those who serve our country and to make a difference in the lives of “America’s best and brightest”. It’s also an amazing blessing to raise my four young children on this “campus” and in this environment. And I grew up in the area, so after being on the West coast for 16 years, it’s nice to be close to old friends and family.

What do you do to keep everyone focused on the “big picture” throughout the season?

Shared goals and communication. I meet with our team regularly to make sure that everyone knows where we’re going and how we’re going to get there. I’m fortunate to have a great staff that I’m responsible for (3 assistants, diving coach, grad assistant, strength coach, etc). We meet daily as a coaching staff and meet with all the support staff at least once a week- it keeps everyone on the same page and focussed on what matters most.

What is the number one thing you look for in a recruit, other than times?

We need people on our team who are very ambitious and love swimming- who are genuinely interested in doing everything they can to achieve their full potential in the sport. We look for people who want to serve their country and understand what they are getting into when they commit to the United States Military Academy. We also need people who are willing to live their life in a unique way- in and out of the pool.

What is your favorite set to give your swimmers?

Technique is the most important thing- even at the college level. We spend time everyday with our swimmers- “creating” the line, moving the line, adding anchors and rotation and putting it all together. In terms of “building the motor” I really appreciate the logical progression that parametric training offers. We build volume in each of the primary energy systems progressively as we work through the season.

What other teams or schools did you coach at before coming to Army?

USMA- ’06-present
University of Washington - ’98-06
UC Santa Cruz- ’92-98
Cal State Northridge (assistant) ’90-92
 
What would you say your biggest accomplishment has been in coaching?

What I am most proud of is that I’ve made a positive difference in the lives of many young people as a result of their experience in my programs. I cherish the relationships we share and value the opportunities to be part of their life after swimming.

I’m also proud of the fact that the swimmers I’ve coached have qualified for the DIV I NCAA’s in every stroke and distance, and  that five of my former assistant coaches are currently successful head coaches at the collegiate level.

Is there any particular moment that stands out in your mind from coaching?

The moment that stands out the most for me is coaching at the 2008 Olympic Games as the head coach for American Samoa. In particular, marching into the stadium during the opening ceremonies. I still get chills when I relive that experience.

I’ll also never forget my first Pac-10 championship swim- Kim Harada in the 200 free.

What motivates you as a coach?

I’m motivated to help people make their dreams come true- in and out of the pool. I also strive to represent this proud and storied program with professionalism and bring success and honor to Army Swimming and Diving.

What do you do to motivate your swimmers?

Every athlete is different in that regard. What’s most important is that you help each swimmer get clear on their goals and what they’re trying to get out of the experience (other than swimming fast and having fun- everyone wants that). Then you can help them structure the environment so they are getting what they want/need. Funny thing- I did my masters thesis on this topic…

Do you have any personal routines before the start of a swim meet?

I just try to make sure that we’ve prepared for every potential eventuality- in and out of the pool. We need to control the things we can control and let the rest take care of itself. I try to stay relaxed and exude a sense of confidence for the athletes (that’s always a lot easier if I can get some exercise before the meet).

What caused you to go into coaching?

I did a lot of sports growing up and I always respected and admired my coaches. I wanted to “be like them” and have the same kind of impact on young people that they had on me.

What are some things that people may not know about you?

I’ve been happily married for 15 years and have 4 beautiful children. I’m an avid wake boarder, snowboarder, and ice hockey player. I have completed a 10:42 Ironman triathlon and finished in the top ten in the Eco challenge (considered by many to be the “world’s most difficult athletic event”).

Do you have any advice for up and coming coaches?

Be willing to do “whatever it takes” to create opportunities for yourself. No job should be too big or small. You need to understand that in order to accomplish your goals, you’ve got to be willing to work hard for long hours with very little pay and recognition. One thing I did a lot for the first 20 years of my career was seek out the “top coaches” and find ways to pick their brains at the big meets and clinics, etc… For example- there is always of group of coaches who will meet for a run in the morning at trials, nationals, etc. Find out when and where they’re meeting and go.