Anthony Nesty is one of the few individuals who have ever won an Olympic gold medal, been an Olympic coach, and gone on to coach Olympic gold medalists.

 

In achieving these goals, Nesty overcame long, challenging odds. He was born in Trinidad, and raised in Suriname where he started his swimming career. He eventually moved to Jacksonville, Florida where he swam for Gregg Troy at The Bolles School. He then matriculated to the University of Florida, where he became one of the most decorated swimmers in Florida history. Anthony’s swimming career was highlighted by his gold medal performance in the 100 meter butterfly at the 1988 Olympics in Seoul.

 

After graduation, Nesty worked his way up through the ranks. He went back to The Bolles School as an assistant before moving to Sarasota, where he served as a club coach with Swim Florida. Eventually he reconnected with Troy, who had become the head coach at the University Florida. After serving as an assistant for several years, he took over the men’s and (later) the women’s programs when Troy retired.

 

Internationally, Anthony has served on various Olympic and World Championship coaching staffs. Many of his swimmers have gone on to excel in the Olympics, World Championships, and other major competitions. He currently coaches Katie Ledecky, Caeleb Dressel, and Bobby Finke, who each won multiple gold medals at the Tokyo Olympics.