Some students spend their college years just trying to stay afloat. University of Mary Washington senior Kyle Diederich – he dove in headfirst.
While pursuing a degree in business administration with a minor in sports management and competing on the varsity swim team, Diederich took on another huge challenge at UMW – helping complete a full-scale renovation of the school’s 60-year-old Goolrick Pool.
“I saw the difficulties this historic facility faced since I was at the pool every day,” said Diederich, who became a student coordinator for aquatics his sophomore year. “I knew I couldn’t just stay quiet; I had to help.”
That realization sparked what he calls a “passion project” that reshaped UMW’s athletic facilities and left a lasting legacy.
“The renovation wouldn’t have happened the way it did without Kyle,” said Director of Campus Recreation Michael Middleton, who worked closely with Diederich on the project. “His diligence, passion and perseverance during the undertaking were incredible.”
Diederich chose to attend Mary Washington for its academic and athletic fit, as well as his longtime connection to head swim coach Justin Anderson ’10, who taught him and sister Ashlyn to swim starting at a young age.
When Anderson began coaching at his alma mater, he eventually recruited both siblings to UMW. Ashlyn is now a sophomore swimmer studying business, philosophy and pre-law.
“I’ve watched Kyle grow into a tremendous student, teammate and leader,” Anderson said. “He’s a once-in-a-lifetime student-athlete for a coach.”
Starting college with an interest in management and facility operations, Diederich quickly found his footing – in the classroom and beyond. He built on prior experience at northern Virginia aquatic centers, where he worked as a pool manager and earned certifications as a lifeguard, lifeguard instructor and pool operator.
He advocated for much-needed improvements to the Goolrick Pool and joined in conversations as renovations were scheduled for summer 2024. He was promoted to aquatics coordinator and pool operator and began working with Middleton. Diederich oversaw daily pool operations, maintained equipment and ensured top-tier conditions for the facility and its users.
“He saw a problem, got involved at the highest level and helped fix it,” Middleton said. “Kyle’s passionate about leaving UMW better than he found it. His influence will be felt for a long time.”
The six-month renovation upgraded all areas of the facility, both in function and appearance. Diederich was on-site daily with contractors, earning a summer stipend for his hands-on role.
Goolrick Pool reopened in January, just in time for a home swim meet and senior day. As a captain, Diederich led both in competition and behind the scenes. His leadership helped power a banner year for the team, including record-breaking scores at the championship meet and the revival of a diving program. He also earned sports management internship credit for overseeing varsity pool operations.
In recognition of his contributions, Anderson and the team honored Diederich with a commemorative plaque and gift at the group’s year-end banquet. Middleton also established a leadership award in his name within Campus Recreation. First presented to Diederich, it’s intended for future students or staff who demonstrate exceptional service in an enduring way.
“Kyle’s impact will be felt by our swim team and future generations of students, faculty and staff for years to come,” Anderson said. “I’m so grateful for all his efforts and passion to leave the University better and stronger.”
Diederich’s next mission is just as ambitious – military service. But the lessons he learned at Mary Washington will stay with him.
“Being part of a team, managing people, working toward a goal – it was all great experience,” he said. “It’s a foundation I’ll carry into every challenge ahead.”
Leave a Reply