University of Houston Athletics
Pakhalina Resigns as Houston Diving Coach
6/22/2015 12:00:00 AM | Swimming & Diving
HOUSTON -- University of Houston Assistant Coach for Diving Yulia Pakhalina has resigned her position to devote additional time to her growing family, the University of Houston Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced today. Pakhalina, one of the most decorated student-athletes in UH history and a two-time American Athletic Conference Diving Coach of the Year, has two children, including a newborn son.
"We are incredibly grateful for the contributions that Yulia made to the UH Swimming & Diving program, both as a competitor and as an incredibly effective coach for the past two seasons," said Houston Head Coach Ryan Wochomurka. "While I'm sad to see her go, I completely respect Yulia's desire to spend more time with her family. I wish her the best of luck, and I look forward to keeping her in the fold as a valued member of the Cougar family."
Pakhalina was named American Athletic Conference Diving Coach of the Year in both 2014 and 2015. Under Pakhalina's tutelage, rising junior Taylor Olanski was named American Diver of the Year this past season and advanced to the NCAA Championships in each of her first two collegiate years. Pakhalina led graduated senior Natasha Burgess to American Diver of the Year laurels in her first season on the job.
As a student-athlete, Pakhalina is one of the most accomplished Cougars in school history. The Penza, Russia, native won five NCAA national championships, taking the 1-meter crown in 2001 and 2003 along with the 3-meter titles in 2001, 2002 and 2003. Her success extended to international competition, where she won five Olympic medals, including a Gold in the 3-meter synchronized event at the 2000 Sydney Games. She also won three World Championships and eight European Championships.
A nationwide search for Pakhalina's replacement will begin immediately.
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