Q&A:
Name: Kenny Mannon
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2011
Events: 100 & 200 breaststroke
Degree: bachelors of science in biology, minor in forensic science
Profession: law enforcement
Current residence: Huntersville, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
My favorite memory is one of personal achievement. As a walk on, my first few weeks of swimming were one of uncertainty. We were in a practice, where there was a final butterfly set. Coach came over to me and said “Kenny, if you can make all this doing breaststroke, you’ll have a spot”. Needless to say, I gave it all I had, and then some. I’ll never forget Coach coming over to me, shaking my hand, and saying “welcome to the team”.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
Being part of this team has shown me that I am capable of things I never expected – if I put my mind to it, and work hard. It instilled in me a mental toughness that has served me well. It also showed that it’s okay to lean on your teammates, because sometimes they have to lean on you too. At the end of the day, we all have the same goal.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
After graduating, I was unsure of what direction I wanted my life to take, so I moved home and worked as a swim coach for a new team for a year. This ultimately wasn’t fulfilling for me, and I decided to take a risk, and pursue my interest in law enforcement. After graduating from the police academy, I tried to make my way back to Wilmington, but wound up in Morehead City for 9 years. Wasn’t quite Wilmington, but at least it was on the coast. Recently, I moved back to where I grew up, and have continued my law enforcement career.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
As a guy who always thought with his stomach, Flaming Amy’s was the spot for me. Every time I’m in town, I go at least once. It’s hard to forget Wagner Hall, especially with it being so close to the suites. Trolley Stop, P.T.s, Flaming Amy’s Bowl, and Tazy’s were also regular spots for me too
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
Has to be when Coach would blow in the conch shell and the whole team would throw up a W
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Be proud of the school, and team, when sending out applications or interest letters. Speaking from personal experience, it helped me get my first job. I mentioned that I was a swimmer, and graduate from UNCW, and the chief at the time responded with she was also an athlete, and graduate from UNCW. That connection got my foot in the door and made me stand out from other applicants.