BIDDEFORD, Maine -- University of New England Director of Athletics Heather Davis announced on Monday (July 13) the hiring of Kathy Leahy '94 as the fourth-ever head coach of the women's swimming program, which begins its 23rd season of varsity competition later this year.

"We are thrilled that Kathy will be joining our talented coaching staff as the next head swimming coach," shared Davis. "Her demonstrated success as a local high school coach, in addition to her background as a highly accomplished collegiate swimmer, gives her the experience and skills to build upon the success of our program, while supporting the student-athletes and fostering a first-rate experience."

Leahy comes to UNE after 30 years guiding the Thornton Academy swim and diving teams in neighboring Saco. In recent seasons, the girls' squad has captured four straight conference championships, and placed third at the 2026 state meet. On the boys' side, after winning the conference crown, the Golden Trojans took second place at the 2026 Maine Class A Championships.

In addition to the coaching at Thornton Academy, she served multiple years in various officer roles for the Maine Interscholastic Swim League Coaches Association (president, vice president, secretary).

Leahy was a two-time All-American swimmer at the University of Maine at Orono. She captained the team as a senior, and claimed one event victory as the group won the New England Women's Intercollegiate Championship for the third time in her four years. Leahy left Orono as the program record-holder in the 50-yard freestyle, and contributed to records in three relays (200 medley, 200 freestyle, 400 freestyle).

She earned a bachelor's degree in Education from UMaine in 1987, then another in Physical Therapy from UNE in 1994. In 2006, Leahy attained a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Boston University.

Leahy is a current practicing physical therapist, and has been adjunct faculty at UNE since 2007. She also comes over to Biddeford as a certified swim and dive official.

"I am very excited to join the UNE Women's Swim Team in the capacity as Head Coach," commented Leahy. "I have watched the program over the years as a spectator when going to local college meets to see some of my former swimmers compete, and I have already witnessed the good swimming competitiveness, sportsmanship, and positive culture they have exhibited on the pool deck. I'm eager to work with each of this year's team members to strive to meet their team and individual goals."

The Nor'easters are entering year five as affiliate members of the Little East Conference (LEC), where they have finished in the top half of the field at each championship event. Nine school records have been reset during the last three seasons.