Kean Women’s Swim Assistant Coach to be Inducted In TCNJ Hall of Fame

By: Marquis Pullins Jr. | Publish Date: October 21, 2026

Kean’s women’s swimming assistant coach Steven Swenson will be inducted into the TCNJ Hall of Fame on Dec 19. Swenson competed at TCNJ from the years 2002 to 2006 and was a 15-time All-American and 2006 NCAA Champion in the 100 breaststroke.  

“It was nice to be recognized for the hard work and the unseen hours that I put into this, said Swenson. “20 years and you look back on the people who impacted you… My brother (Coach Chris Swenson) is one of the most competitive souls I have known.” 

The Swensons are a “huge” family of swimmers, according to the Head Coach for Kean’s swim team Chris Swenson. Chris attended Rowan University. This allowed the brothers to compete against each other throughout their collegiate years. 

“Steven made me a better swimmer… I felt like I was the best version of myself because of how he pushed me to be better,” said Chris Swenson.  

Chris Swenson emphasized the significant impact his assistant coach has had on the Kean swimming program. Steve Swenson’s contribution to the program shows the value he brings to both the coaching staff and the swimmers. 

One of Swenson’s swimmers, junior Kaitlyn Tannenhaus, even credited Steve Swensen’s contribution as “one of the main reasons” she chose Kean University. The brothers aim to instill the championship mindset to their swimmers, showing that effort and discipline they display will carry over to the competition.  

“I want them to show up everyday and be the best version of themselves,” said Steve Swenson.  

Their strong work ethic dates back to when they were young. During the summer, the brothers would wake up at 5 a.m. and go out to swim.  

“Growing up it was a very tight and competitive childhood that continued into our adulthood,” said Steven Swenson, “my brothers always kept me in check…that in itself shaped my work ethic and I want to instill that to the team.” 

Chris Swenson shared his brother’s stance on their competitive nature.  

“I’d rather have him on my side than to have to go against him, but we work really well together and he has definitely made me a better coach,” said Chris Swenson. 

Throughout the years, Steven Swenson’s dedication has remained consistent and honest. He approaches his day-to-day life with the same mindset and continual passion for improvement that he does in the water. His commitment to becoming better than the day before is a driving motivation to others around him to have that same incitement every day.