University of Florida New Swim Coach Kristin Walker’s Parents, Drew and Dianne Walker, Inspired Her Success Through Unwavering Support And Guidance

Drew and Dianne Walker’s life stories reflect the values they passed on to their daughter.

August 15, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on August 15, 2026

Kristin Walker’s parents provided the foundation of dedication and resilience that influenced her coaching journey.

Kristin Walker has quickly built a reputation as one of the rising stars in collegiate swimming coaching.

In 2026, Florida’s swimming & diving head coach Anthony Nesty announced her appointment as the Gators’ Associate Head Coach, a role that recognizes her proven ability to inspire athletes and elevate programs.

Walker arrives at Florida after six successful seasons as Associate Head Coach and Women’s Recruiting Coordinator for the University of Wyoming Swimming & Diving program.

During her tenure, she recruited and coached 11 Mountain West and WAC Conference champions, including Tara Joyce and Maisyn Klimczak, as well as Olympic Trials qualifier Carly Palmer.

Most notably, she helped guide Macey Hansen to the 2026 NCAA Championships—the school’s first qualifier since 2016.

Her work earned national recognition when she was named to the American Swimming Coaches Association’s “30 Under 30” list in June 2026.

Before Wyoming, she spent three seasons at Georgia Southern, receiving the prestigious CSCAA Jean Freeman Scholarship in 2019.

A former standout breaststroker at the University of New Mexico, Walker brings both competitive experience and a gift for athlete development to her new role in Gainesville.

Meet Kristin Walker’s Parents, Drew and Dianne Walker

Kristin Walker is the daughter of Drew Walker and Dianne Walker, who live in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Her parents have been a steady source of encouragement throughout her swimming and coaching journey.

Drew Walker is a Senior Systems Analyst at Odyssey Systems, where he has for more than 12 years, providing expert support to the Missile Defense Agency’s operations.

His distinguished career includes over 16 years as a U.S. Navy Naval Aviator, holding leadership positions such as Detachment Officer in Charge and Instructor Pilot.

He has also served in roles with Teledyne Brown Engineering, USNORTHCOM, and USSPACECOM, combining operational expertise with strategic planning.

Drew’s military background and disciplined work ethic have influenced Kristin’s own drive and leadership style.

Dianne Walker, who at Mississippi College and attended Central Hinds Academy, has deep roots in the South, hailing from Terry, Mississippi.

She has built a life centered on family and community while supporting Kristin’s academic and athletic ambitions from an early age.

Together, Drew and Dianne Walker have provided the foundation of dedication, resilience, and encouragement that has shaped Kristin into the respected coach she is today.

In Case You Didn’t Know

• She worked with Dennis Pursley’s coaching staff during Alabama’s Rising Tide swim camp in the summer of 2018.

• She broke the University of New Mexico school record in the 200-yard breaststroke.

• She earned her master’s degree in Special Education from Georgia Southern University.

• Check other Articles on

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