Name: Leigh Tysinger Abraham
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 1999
Two-Year UNCW Women’s Swim Coach and One-Year Assistant Student Coach
Events: 200, 500, 1650 Freestyle
Degree: Environmental Science
Profession: Mom (former high school science teacher and swim coach)
Current residence: Greensboro
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
My favorite memory is winning the CAA championship in 1998. It was the first time the women had won the championship. I transferred in from NC State and did not know really anything about the program except my best friend, Cameron Post Smith went there. I literally went to the first swimming meeting and met Coach Allen. It was one of the best decisions of my life.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
I was on the verge of quitting swimming and when I transferred in from NC State. Swimming felt fun again and I met so many good friends. Coach Allen became a big part of my life and like a father figure to me. He then called me after a few years (finished grad school at UNC and was a high school science teacher and swim coach) and asked me to be the women’s assistant coach. It was such an honor and I enjoyed this time of my life so much. UNCW is such a wonderful place and I thank God every day I “stumbled” upon it. I would do it all over again if I could!
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I was a high school science teacher and now I am a mom of three. I am very busy with them and I enjoy running and playing tennis. Occasionally, I will hop in the pool and swim a few laps!
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
The beach!
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
Oh gosh – I can’t remember exactly. But I loved how loud we would get when we came out of our huddle. And my favorite meet of all time was against ECU. I never understood the hype until I walked into their pool for the first time! Of course we won both our dual meets against them and destroyed them at CAAs (especially in 1999).
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
UNCW swimmers – cherish the time you have at school and with friends. Enjoy each moment even if it is a very hard practice or a tough class. It goes quick! And I will say it again, I would do it all over in a heartbeat! The late nights studying and the hard practices make you stronger. Not many people have the privilege to swim and compete for their college!