MUNSTER — Even while engaged in a conversation about his own accomplishments this season, Munster coach Matt Pavlovich was quick to dish out praise to other coaches in Northwest Indiana.
He talked about the rebuilding job done by Michigan City’s Mel Kovenz, the strong season led by Valparaiso’s Adam Nellessen, the preparedness of Lake Central’s Jeff Kilinski and the work ethic of Chesterton’s Kevin Kinel.
However, when the state finals wrapped up, it was the humble Pavlovich whose Seahorses stood above the rest as the top local team. Munster’s team score of 112 was good enough for an eighth-place finish, earning Pavlovich Post-Tribune Boys Swimming Coach of the Year honors.
Although he’s quick to defer credit to swimmers and other coaches, Pavlovich does recognize his attributes that have contributed to Munster’s success. He also guided his team to its 30th consecutive sectional title.
“We did a really good job as a coaching staff with training specifically,” he said. “One of my strengths as a coach is doing a self-reflection at the end of every season and trying to find something to improve on every year. Something we do well here is really thinking it through and doing an evaluation of our training program and what we’re doing with the kids on a day-to-day basis.”
Seniors Joey Gardner and Wilson Beckman flourished for the Seahorses this season. Gardner placed fifth in the 100-yard breaststroke (55.79) and sixth in the 200 IM (1:50.10) at the state finals. His 100 breaststroke time shattered his own school record. Beckman won the state title in the 100 backstroke in 49.21.
However, the success of the program went beyond its star swimmers. According to Pavlovich, the middle of the team and less talented, newer swimmers also showed improvement throughout the season.
Pavlovich will have his work cut out for him if he wants to uphold the program’s tradition of success next season. Heavy graduation losses will leave the Seahorses with a young team, but a large incoming freshman class will help compensate for the loss of numbers.
“There have been years where we lose a lot, and we get two or three girls and one boy coming in,” Pavlovich said. “It’s not always going to work out this well. This was a great group of seniors to work with over the last four years and I hate to see them go, but it’s nice to know we’ve got kids coming up that can hopefully rejuvenate you.”
As Pavlovich’s years of experience begin an ascent toward veteran status, he’s noticing that the high school season goes by faster and faster. Although club swimming is an important component of swimming success, the high school season has always seemed extra special to the Munster coach.
“It’s so much different from club even though it’s the same kids,” Pavlovich said. “It definitely has a different feel and a different dynamic. I noticed that when I was in high school, and that’s when I realized I wanted to coach. I’ve always had a love for high school swimming.”
Brandon Vickrey is a freelance writer.
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