Oklahoma Christian University hires a new assistant swim coach

The Oklahoma Christian University swim program is no stranger to incredible coaching. Head Coach Josh Davis has again proven adding talent to the coaching press only stands to improve pool performance. New Assistant Swim Coach Benjamin Corley is an addition to this already striking roster.

When asked what drives him each day to coach, he said,

 “I was put on this planet to be useful to my community,” Corley said. 

Corley is no newcomer to the pool deck. With more than 30 years of coaching experience, he has guided swimmers at nearly every level of the sport. His résumé includes time with local club programs, college teams, and international organizations like FINA (now called World Aquatics), the governing body of aquatic sports worldwide. Working alongside athletes competing at the sport’s highest levels has given him an in-depth perspective on what it takes to succeed.

This experience is now being passed down to Oklahoma Christian athletes. 

When asked how the season is going so far, Corley showed great optimism in the skill of the athletes. He said the team has already competed in intersquad meets—similar to scrimmages—where the morale of the swimmers has been overwhelmingly positive.

 “The energy has been incredible,” Corley said, noting that even in practice settings, “The athletes are pushing each other to grow.”

Freshmen are beginning to find their place, while returning upperclassmen are stepping into leadership roles. Corley has seen how these interactions are shaping a strong culture of accountability and encouragement. He said he believes this kind of environment sets the stage for breakthroughs in competition later in the season.

Of course, success in the pool is not just about fast times. When asked how the team can continue to improve, Corley had a simple answer: 

“Solidarity,” Corley said. “Strength through unity.” 

Swimming can sometimes feel like an individual sport, but Corley stresses the importance of community and shared goals. 

“When the team is cheering each other on, when they know they’re not alone in the fight, that’s when special things happen,” Corley said. 

When asked what he wants the Oklahoma Christian community to know about the team, Corley emphasized the importance of perspective. 

“I want students to know that the swimmers are just students too. They struggle with life just like the rest of us,” Corley said. 

Support, he said, makes a tangible difference. 

“Come to the meets and cheer us on as we compete for our school,” Corley said. 

As the season unfolds, Corley said he is excited to see how the athletes progress, both in and out of the pool. His partnership with Coach Davis brings together decades of knowledge, passion, and drive. 

For Oklahoma Christian students wondering how to support their peers, Corley’s message is clear: 

“Show up, cheer loud, and be part of the team’s journey,” Corley said.

The swimmers will take care of the laps—the community’s role is to bring the energy. And if Coach Corley has anything to say about it, this season is just the beginning of something special.