CHARLOTTE, N.C.- Queens University of Charlotte Associate Athletic Director and Director of Swimming Jeff Dugdale has announced the addition of Meredith Cavalier to his staff as an assistant swimming coach. Cavalier, a four-time NCAA DI All-American swimmer, joins the Royals after coaching summer league swimming for six seasons, spending the 2023 season at Myers Park Country Club.
 
"A former ACC Champion and NCAA All-American, Meredith has and continues to live a lifestyle of excellence," Dugdale commented. "Meredith is another addition to our staff that will help deliver an amazing experience.  I can't wait for our team to work with her."
 
Prior to becoming a coach, Cavalier competed collegiately at UVA from 2009-2014.  The four-time all-American recorded an eighth-place backstroke finish in a time of 1:52.89. The time was a lifetime best and ranked second all-time at UVA in 2012. Currently, she ranks ninth all-time at her alma mater in the event. Cavalier is also a four-time ACC Champion winning the 200 back, 200 medley relay, 200 free relay, and 400 free relay in 2012. Cavalier was also a 2012 Olympic Trials qualifier in the 100 and 200 backstroke.
 
"Meredith brings an energy and vitality that is unmatched in the college swimming world," Mark Bernardino, former UVA head coach commented. "She was a fearless and intense competitor as an athlete and always raced with confidence, courage, and self-belief. She trusted her training and racing instinct and thrived when the lights were brightest. She has always been an incredibly positive and self-motivated woman, and her desire to coach, motivate, and succeed in the coaching world will undoubtedly bring out the best in many others. As her former coach, I could not be more excited for Meredith or Queens University swimming to welcome Coach Meredith Cavalier back to the collegiate swimming community."
 
Cavalier graduated from UVA with a degree in English and is now also a certified fitness professional and studio manager at F45 Training (Cotswold) in Charlotte, N.C. A native of Stafford, Va., Cavalier swam at Brooke Point High School where she secured two state championships and holds state records in the 100 backstroke. She also swam club for QDD (Quantico Devil Dolphins) with Coach Jeremy Linn, and NCAP (Nation's Capital Swim Club) with Coach Pete Morgan.
 
"I am stoked to be back in the collegiate swimming world," Cavalier stated. "I feel lucky and honored to have this opportunity to work beside a world-class coaching staff and group of athletes. I'm ready to bring fresh energy and experience to the Queens University of Charlotte women! The swimming world has changed so much in 10 years and I can't wait to see what the team will accomplish leading up to the 2024 Olympics."
 
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