Earlier this summer Duke Swimming and Diving scored a perfect 10 when Nunzio Esposto agreed to become the new Diving Coach. Coach Esposto's hiring follows a national search which ironically was filled close to home. He is an excellent choice for Duke, with extensive experience as both a competitor and coach. Coach Esposto previously competed for and coached the diving program at rival UNC Chapel Hill. He also later served as Head Coach of the Blue Devil Diving club program from 2003 to 2007, notably coaching current Duke diver and 2012 Olympic medalist Nick McCrory. Coach Esposto should have an immediate positive impact on Duke's veteran divers as well as incoming freshmen.

Recently, alumnus Paul Zarian (Swimming '10) had the chance to ask Coach Esposto some questions about his plans for the upcoming season and vision for the program. Check out the dialogue below.

Paul Zarian: What was the story behind you getting the Duke Diving position?
Nunzio Esposto: I wanted to get back into full time coaching and also wanted to stay in North Carolina.

PZ: Why did you decide to return to coaching?
NE: I missed coaching full time.

PZ: What are you most excited about in the upcoming season?
NE: I’m excited to work with all the student athletes and help them accomplish their goals this year.

PZ: Is it fun to be coaching Nick McCrory again?
NE: Absolutely, he’s got a great attitude and we have an established relationship.

PZ: How has the sport changed since you were an athlete?
NE: The men and the women are doing much more complicated and higher DD (degree of difficulty) dives both on springboard and platform.

PZ: Do you have a certain coaching style or technique that you subscribe to?
NE: Very much an interactive coaching style for water and dryland with extensive video training.

PZ: How do you see this new position affecting your involvement with USA Diving?
NE: I will also be coaching a (local) club team called Duke Diving.

PZ: What is the most important piece of advice you give to your athletes?
NE: Hard work and perseverance will definitely help you accomplish both short term and long term goals.