Coaches
Coach Matt Porter has proudly led the Granite Marlins since 2000, leading the program with passion, energy, and a deep love for the sport. A true Marlin through and through, Matt first dove into Granite swimming at just 5 years old and never looked back—spending his entire summer league career in the very lanes he now oversees.
After his Marlins days, Coach Porter continued his swimming career at James Madison University, building on his competitive experience and love of the water. Today, in addition to leading the Marlins, he has been coaching the swim team at Cosby High School since 2016, helping shape the next generation of swimmers both in and out of the pool.
When he’s not on deck, Coach Porter is in the classroom teaching Civics and Economics at Tomahawk Creek Middle School—so whether it’s flip turns or the Constitution, he’s always finding ways to inspire young people.
Matt and his wife, Sharon, are proud parents of three former Marlins—Hayden, Abby, and Ellie—making the Granite Marlins truly a family tradition.
Coach Becca
Becca Thompson
Outside of the pool, she serves as the principal at Tomahawk Creek Middle School where she gets to continue working alongside Coach Matt all year long! In 2017, her career in education led her to transition into a part-time volunteer coaching role, but she still loves every opportunity she gets to be on deck with the team.
She is also proud swim parent to two Granite swimmers: her son, Tripp (15), who will begin his coaching career this summer, and her daughter Collins (11). Her husband Carl has been the "voice" at all Granite home meets and the RMAL championship meet for many years. Whether she is leading a set, in the water with her swimmers, or showing off my signature dance moves at practice, she strives to bring enthusiasm, energy, and positivity to every practice she attends!
Coach Tripp
A lifelong Granite swimmer, Tripp has been part of the Granite Swim Team since he was 4 years old. Since then, Granite has become his summer home, and he is excited to give back to the program that has meant so much to him over the years.
Tripp is especially looking forward to coaching alongside Coach Matt, someone he has looked up to for many years, as well as his mom, Becca. While he may be a little more reserved than some coaches, Tripp leads by example through his strong work ethic, competitive spirit, kindness, and genuine care and enthusiasm for every swimmer on the team. He is passionate about helping swimmers improve, build confidence, and have fun, and he is excited to work with the Granite kids this summer!
