Matt Bos is preparing for his inaugural season as head coach of the University of St. Thomas swimming and diving program. Although this is his first season at the helm, he has already laid the foundation for a strong team culture and is excited about what the future holds for the Tommies.
“I started at St. Thomas in the spring, so this will be my first season with the program,” Bos notes. While Bos may be new to the team, he is not new to the world of competitive swimming. With experience coaching at other institutions, Bos brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to a program ready to make waves.
One challenge facing the Tommies this season is the departure of Grace Urkiel, a standout swimmer on the women’s team. Urkiel was an All-Summit League performer and holds multiple school records. “That is a hole we will work to fill with several different athletes,” Bos says. He is optimistic that the team’s depth and talent will help compensate for this loss, as various swimmers will need to step up and take on bigger roles.
Despite the loss of Urkiel, Bos has a strong core of returning athletes who are expected to make a significant impact. For the women’s team, seniors Elizabeth Bonneville, Grace Forsberg, and Sophie Curran, along with junior Libby Fischer, will lead the way. On the men’s side, senior Alex Foti, junior Philip Jensen, and sophomores Lucas Becker and Sean Bannon are all primed to be key contributors. These athletes not only bring experience but also the leadership needed to guide the younger members of the team
Bos is particularly excited about the incoming freshman class, which he describes as “very deep” on both the women’s and men’s sides. “We are expecting the freshman class to make a huge impact with our team,” Bos emphasizes. The infusion of fresh talent, combined with the experience of the returning athletes, has the potential to make this season one to remember for St. Thomas.
At the core of Bos’s coaching philosophy is the value he places on a comprehensive student-athlete experience. “We are looking for forward-thinking student-athletes who put a value on the overall experience St. Thomas offers,” he says. For Bos, it’s not just about performing well in the pool, but also about engaging with the broader university community and growing as individuals. This focus on developing well-rounded individuals aligns with his vision for the program’s culture.
“UST swimming and diving strives to deliver athletic, academic, and community value by achieving results and inspiring exceptional character through the culture of team,” Bos states. This culture is built on a foundation of hard work, creativity, and a commitment to excellence both in and out of the pool.
What sets St. Thomas apart, according to Bos, is the emphasis on the comprehensive experience the student-athletes receive. Whether in training, competition, or academic pursuits, the program is dedicated to ensuring athletes are prepared for success in all areas of their lives.
Being part of the Tommie program is about embracing challenges and striving for success. “Being a Tommie means you want to be successful both in and out of the pool, and you do not shy away from hard work,” Bos says. He also highlights the importance of creativity and forward thinking, key traits that will help his athletes thrive in their collegiate careers and beyond.
As Bos prepares for his first season at St. Thomas, he is excited about the potential of the program and the opportunity to build something special. With a strong core of returning athletes, a talented freshman class, and a commitment to holistic development, the Tommies are poised for an exciting year in the pool.