Meet our 2026 Coaching Staff!
Kate Murphy– Head Coach
Coach Kate is returning in 2026! She joined our program in 2025 as head coach and is excited to spend this summer with the Woodbrooke Warriors! Coach Kate grew up swimming in the NSSL and was hooked from a young age on the magic of summer swimming; there’s nothing quite like a summer on the pool deck! She has spent the last fifteen years coaching in the league, both as an assistant and head coach. She also coached for the Birmingham Blue Dolphins from 2010 – 2020. During the year, Coach Kate works at Groves High School, where she teaches World History, Excel, AP Government, and a host of electives. She lives in Allen Park with her husband Dan, their son Robbie, and an assortment of pets. Coach Kate loves to help swimmers learn and grow in the sport and is thrilled to be on deck for a wonderful season at Woodbrooke!
Sydney Elder- Assistant Coach
Coach Sydney is at Michigan State University and is also excited to return to Woodbrooke again for the 2026 summer season! She spent her entire life swimming during the summers – many years at Woodbrooke! She also swam competitively at North Farmington High School. Throughout all of those years, her favorite stroke was breaststroke. She looks forward to another great summer with all the swimmers and families.
James Walby- Assistant Coach
James is joining the 2026 season as an assistant coach for the Woodbrooke Warriors. He is a familiar face to Woodbrooke Hills as he spent the last several years as a swimmer on the team. We are excited to have him as part of our coaching staff this year! James is a recent graduate from North Farmington High School. He is transferring to MSU this fall from the University of Michigan. He specializes in the IM and Butterfly. Join us in welcoming James!