Maxwell McHugh
Maxwell McHugh
QUICK STATS
- Birthdate: December 31, 1999
- Hometown: Sturgeon Bay, WI
- Club Team: Door County YMCA Swim Team
- College: University of Minnesota
- Coach: Kelly Kremer
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
- 4-time NCAA Champion
- 7-time Big Ten Champion
- Big Ten Swimmer of the Year
- Big Ten Freshman of the Year
- Olympic Trials Finalist
EXPERIENCE
Max McHugh is a four-time NCAA Champion, specializing in breaststroke. He is the seventh male in NCAA history to win three straight 100 breast titles, and eighth to win three titles overall in the event. Max didn’t have to look far for inspiration and guidance, as his father is a high school swim coach and his older brother swam at the University of Minnesota as well. He says, “Support from others is vital to success in swimming. Willingness to learn from others, seeking help when needed, and leaning on those around you are critical to development in the sport.”
Following a successful collegiate career at the University of Minnesota, Max works as an assistant coach at the University of St. Thomas while he trains for the 2024 Olympic Trials. He is dedicated to developing athletes’ swimming abilities and achieving success through personalized training programs, analyzing athletes’ performance, and giving personalized feedback. He brings this experience to Fitter & Faster Swim Camps. He works with camp participants both in and out of the water to help them understand stroke technique. “I am an effective leader because I can clearly communicate my ideas and help demonstrate difficult or more complex techniques when needed.”
Max is also a patient and supportive instructor who has worked with swimmers of all ages and abilities. He provides gentle encouragement and constructive feedback, creating a positive learning environment. He says, “At the end of the day, swimming is just a sport and shouldn’t occupy your whole life. I think a happy and relaxed swimmer is a fast swimmer.” He instills in young athletes that they should be confident and believe in themselves. He often shares with Fitter & Faster Swim Camp participants his favorite quote, “Make sure your worst enemy doesn’t live between your own two ears.”
