MIAMI (Nov. 20, 2019) - FIU head swim and dive coach Randy Horner announced on Thursday the promotion of Nick Yang to Diving Coach, as Yang makes the move from volunteer assistant to a full-time role. 

Since joining the FIU staff in August, Yang has brought a new energy to the Panther diving program who proves their strength at every competition. 

"Nick is a team player and that's the foundation of our program here at FIU," Horner said. "We are fortunate to have him on the staff."

In just 90 days at FIU, Yang has taught Rachel Foord five new dives and has grown her confidence from the diving board as she has earned nine top-5 finishes and two victories on the year.

Yang credits the smooth transition into the role to the structure Coach Horner and associate head coach Igancio Gayo have built for years at FIU.

"Randy and Igancio have taught me so much in the few months I have been here and everyday is a new experience," Yang said. 

Prior to FIU, Yang left his mark at the University of Minnesota as he quickly built an impressive resume in the Gopher diving program. In his short time at Minnesota, the Chaohu City, China native made back-to-back appearances at the NCAA Championships, received All-American honors and broke two school records. His best finish was during the platform event at the National Competition where he placed fifth after a school-record score of 523.55.

Yang's coaching experience began with a volunteer position at Minnesota under diving coach Wenbo Chen, where he assisted at summer camps. Prior to that, Yang worked as an assistant diving coach in his home country of China, focusing on children aged 12-16 where he learned the most about management, leadership and respect. 

Yang and the Panthers head to Purdue on Wednesday, Nov. 20 to participate in the Purdue Invitational, where they will take on Purdue, Louisville, Pittsburgh, Grand Canyon, McKendree, Illinois State and Indiana State over the course of three days with Sunday being held for non-competition time trials. 

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