Seahawk Spotlight: Jodie Pender
Name: Jodie (Yantachka) Pender
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2005
Events: 50/100 Free, 100 Back
Degree: Elementary Education and Spanish
Profession: Assistant Principal
Current residence: Southport, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
My favorite memory of being part of the UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program was walking out of the locker room on meet days. The cheering and excitement was always exhilarating to me. The second you walked onto the pool deck and the cheering got louder because everyone knew they were about to swim a fast race to help support a Seahawk win was always a feeling that could never be matched. Meet days were what brought all the hard work together. Knowing that a great race and personal best would come from the countless hours that were put in the pool, weight room, and miles on hot afternoons…along with the occasional Saturday ocean swims (if the weather cooperated) was personally rewarding especially when it helped a Seahawk win. The celebration by the team, Coach Allen, and Dan Forrester after a great race and winning a meet was always the best. My UNCW Swimming years will always hold a special place in my heart.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
Swimming in any capacity was always what made me happy and has always been a big part of my life. I grew up with the mindset; always do what you love. When I became part of the UNCW Swimming & Diving program I was doing what I loved. I thought that was the purpose of being a part of the UNCW Swimming and Diving program, but it was so much more than this mindset. The UNCW Swimming and Diving program helped me obtain skills that I have used from college and continue to use today. Building friendships, gaining strong leadership skills, creating a passion to succeed even when things are difficult, and instilling a passion to support my future were just a few of the qualities I gained. I truly believe that I gained these skills by being a part of a strong, dedicated, and determined team. These skills that I have taken away from UNCW Swimming & Diving program have helped me daily to support our future generation as an educator.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
Since the UNCW pool deck days I have been in the Education field. I was a K-3 teacher for 11 years, Instructional Coach for 5 years, and I am now an Assistant Principal. I have been an Assistant Principal for the past 3 years. My husband, Cliff, is a general contractor and owns Solstice Builders. I taught my step kids, Hunter and Dow, when they were in First Grade. Hunter is now a Junior at Appalachian State studying K-12 Spanish Education. Dow is a Freshman at UNC Chapel Hill studying Nursing. We are a very active family who spends a lot of time somewhere around the water and we love to travel!
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
Wrightsville Beach, Jerry Allens, Level 5
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
“It’s a great day to be a SEAHAWK!”
“DUB LOVE”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Sometimes “life” gets busy and you forget to do the things that you love to do for yourself. Make time for those things that you love to do for yourself even if it is for 15 minutes. Do what you love, love what you do, and always know….you will be a Seahawk for life! Go SEAHAWKS!
Seahawk Spotlight: Glenn Allen
Q&A:
Name: Glenn Allen
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 1993
Events:
Men and Women’s Swimming and Diving Team Manager
Degree:
BA in Physical Education and Psychology and a Concentration in Health (UNCW 1993)
Master’s in Religious Education (Jacksonville Theological Seminary 1996)
Occupation:
North Carolina Army National Guard (Medic 1981-1987)
Retail Sales, Currently Retired on Medical Disability
Current residence: Wilmington NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
There were so many great memories with the UNCW Swimming and Diving program. I remember when the UNCW Women’s team beat ECU and Women’s Team sang Respect. I remember when the Men’s team came close to their first Conference championships and going to Easterns in Cleveland, Ohio and Christmas training in Atlanta Georgia.
The best part was just being around Coach Dave Allen and Coach Ellington and Al and Frank and all my great Teammates. The Meets and everything were great but spending time with both teams outside of the pool was very important.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
Coach Dave Allen would celebrate every achievement. It could be a Personal Record or a team record or Pool Record or someone becoming a Conference or Eastern’s Championship Coach Allen also was an encourager. I loved how he treated everyone as an individual. That was being a great role model.
That carries on today with the Alumni that has graduated from UNCW, and it continues through Coach Bobby leading the current Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Teams.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I am Currently a Deacon at my Church; I worked in Retail sales until I retired on Medical Disability.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
David Allen Natatorium, UNCW Student Union, and Swim Team Parties
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
“It’s a great day to be a Seahawk!”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
To the current Swimmers and Divers enjoy your experiences. Enjoy spending time with your teammates. It is important to train hard and to be disciplined in your studies and training. It is also important to spend time with your family as well. You also have a chance to learn from your Coaches,
To the Seniors I would say soak in everything you can from your Senior year. You will be graduating soon and will either be entering the work force or continuing higher education.
You will be a very important part of the UNCW Swimming and Diving Alumni. it is important to maintain contact with your teammates as well as to be involved with the Alumni. You will be joining the legacy of the history of UNCW Swimming and Diving. Being a part of the family of UNCW Swimming and Diving. Coach Dave Allen started a great program but more importantly a Swimming and Diving Family.
Seahawk Spotlight: Dean Berman
Q&A:
Name: Dean Berman
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2006
Events: 1m and 3m Springboard Diving
Degree: Computer Science
Profession: Senior Software Engineer, NAVY Contractor
Current residence: Waxhaw, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
Being part of the UNCW Dynasty and sweeping the CAA Championships as well as setting pool and conference records. Getting to compete in the NCAAs was also a lifelong dream achieved. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014 was such an honor. UNCW Swimming and Diving program was my home-away-from-home, and the late Marc Ellington, Head Diving Coach, was a father figure to me. The late Head Swimming Coach Dave Allen was an amazing mentor and friend to everyone and I will never forget either of them for as long as I live.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
Being able to attend an amazing college, earning a degree in Computer Science, and having the knowledge and readiness to join the working force and providing for my family. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve any of this without the experience and help of the UNCW Swimming and Diving team and coaches and experiences. What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck? After graduation I moved back to Charlotte temporarily until I got a new job in Charleston. I relocated in 2007. I spent a year as an Assistant Diving Coach at College of Charleston. I got married in 2008, had a daughter in 2012 and a son in 2015. We moved back to Charlotte after our daughter was born and have been here since 2013. I work as a government contractor for a global contracting company and recently achieved 16years with the company. I have multiple side hustles doing residental handyman and eletrical work, along with being a systems administrator for multiple online portals. I have 2 amazing kids, ages 11 and 8, and a wonderful and supportive wife of over 15years.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
David Allen Natatorium Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer? “It’s a great day to be a Seahawk!”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Enjoy your college years and being young. Time passes so quickly.
Seahawk Spotlight: Clifton Perkins
Name: Clifton Perkins
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 1994, Co-Captain ‘93 and ‘94
Events: 200/400 IM, 200 Breast, 200 Fly
Degree: BS Marketing/Business
Profession: Sales Consultant Brame Specialty Co
Current residence: Wilmington, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program and how did you choose UNCW?
I had my sights set on being a Seahawk from a young age. I competed in one of the first Seahawk Invitationals around ‘81 as a 10 yr old earning a first place spot in the 100 IM and maybe even getting the attention of Coach Allen. From there the path was being paved from members of the 1980’s NC Powerhouse, the Tarheel Aqua Racers (TAR). I followed the likes of Mike Bitzenhofer, Greg Magdanz, Art Hall, Scot Carboni and Glenn Peterson into becoming a Seahawk Swimmer. It was a natural fit for me. I made my mark immediately breaking several freshman and varsity records. Each year Coach attracted some incredible talent and we challenged each other in and out of the pool, we all knew we were building something special. The memories of all the hard work paying off and the lifelong friendships that were created is what I cherish the most. I am incredibly proud to see the rise to greatness that has been achieved over the years and to have been a part of that process.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
One of the life lessons I learned from being a Seahawk swimmer, is to manage the little things, do them well and the big things seem to fall into place. I also remember Coach Allen reminding us often to leave a place cleaner and better than you found it. Something I try to instil in my own boys.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I spent my first several years gaining work experience and traveling to as many surf destinations as possible. I love the Caribbean and Central America the most. My wife, Jess and I met surfing and now have 2 crazy boys, Van (9) Lou (5) that are seemingly paying me back (karma) for all my shenanigans prior to settling down. I enjoy sales and I am in my 22nd year with Brame. My work allows me to work closely with my Alma Mater and I see firsthand the growth on campus. It’s come a long way from the days I was here!
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
I spent most of my free time away from the pool at the beach, surfing, Lifeguarding at WB and enjoying the coastal life. Masonboro holds a special place in my heart.
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
Here’s to ECU…
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Enjoy the ride! These will be some of the most cherished moments as you move into the next stage of life. The values and the knowledge of knowing what it takes to be successful in the pool will translates into your professional career. Check in with your old teammates often!
Seahawk Spotlight: KJ Bentley
Name: KJ Bentley (formerly KJ Silver)
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 2000
Events: 50,100 free
Degree: BA Special Education (2004) MA Language and Literacy (2005)
Profession: Title 1 (Kindergarten-5th grade) Intervention Specialist
Current residence: Painter, VA out on the Eastern Shore of Virginia
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
I loved being a part of the Swim/Dive family. There are SO many memories but if I had to pick one it would be winning CAAs my sophomore year. We were the first team to win the CAA title and it was an amazing feeling!
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
I used to jokingly say that swimming trained me how to operate on little sleep but in reality my experience as a Seahawk swimmer has taught me so much more than that. Now that I am coaching high school age kids I reflect on lessons I learned about training, sportsmanship, dedication and commitment from Coach Allen. I value team culture above anything else because my experience at UNCW was with such a positive and supportive team culture. I attribute that team culture to Coach Allen’s leadership and example. I’m proud to say that my high school swimmers are known for their sportsmanship across the teams we swim against. Over the past 2 years on my high school team we have taught four kids how to swim. This would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of their teammates. The team environment I experienced during my four years at UNCW directly impacted the expectations I have for my swimmers.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
Since swimming at UNCW I have gotten married and had 3 daughters, Grace (17) Sarah (15) Caroline (11). I currently teach reading and math interventions at an elementary school. I also coach the summer league team, High School Swim Team and the USA Team out on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. I never thought I would be coaching, but here I am. My husband is a starter/ref so it makes swim meets a family affair.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
Some of my favorites: taking the dogs to Shell Island Dog Beach, studying and swimming at Mallard St beach access, sitting on the ledge at Buddy’s and grabbing a burger from PT’s.
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
Coach Allen would shout “Hi-Ho Silver- AWAY” when I got up on the blocks. It was a reference to the Lone Ranger and what he would yell to his horse as they galloped away after the bad guys. It would always help shake off that last bit of nerves before I swam.
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Cherish the memories you are making, even the hard ones. You will look back and see all the lessons you have been taught by the sport, your coaches and your teammates.
Seahawk Spotlight: Sam O’Leary
Name: Sam O’Leary
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 1982
Events: 50 and 100 Free and 100 and 200 Fly
Degree: Therapeutic Recreation
Profession: MCCS Manager, Camp Lejeune NC. Retired
Current residence: Downtown Jacksonville NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program? Coach Dave Allen. Still stay in close contact with of the old guys (best friends) and gals from our swimming days.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life? My life would be totally deferent if I was not part of the swimming and diving teams. Dave and Ellen Allen are the best. Coach Allen is the ideal leader and mentor. Most of the old guys have moved back to Wilmington. Me, just up the street in Jacksonville. We wanted to stay close to our swim/dive programs.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck? Worked at Camp Lejeune for the last 32 years in a wide range Managements positions. I enjoyed working for the Active Duty Marines.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW? Wrightsville Beach
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer? “It’s a Great Day to be a Seahawk” Dave Allen!
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni? You’re in Great Hands with Coach Bobby and his team. If you can see yourself doing “it.” you can.
Seahawk Spotlight: Doug Shanks
Name: Doug Shanks
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of 1997
Events: 50 Free, 100 Free, 100 Fly
Degree: Business Management
Profession: Regional Sales Manager – Fastenal
Current residence: Huntersville, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
My favorite memory was winning the 50 free at CAA’s my junior year and having Coach Allen run over and give me a big bear hug.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
The UNCW Swimming & Diving program changed my life. First of all, I have met some amazing people in this program that are still very special to me today. I have so many memories filled with crazy stories and lots of laughs. While my wife was not a swimmer, I would not have met her if it was not for this program. The art of willing to sacrifice something in order to achieve something greater is what we all have done throughout our swimming careers. It is what bonds us together and makes our relationship so special. Coach Allen created a culture that produced winners – not just in the pool, but in the classroom & in life.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I have been married for 20 years to my wife, Leigh. We have 3 amazing kids: Grant (18), Bennett (16), and Celia (13). I have been with Fastenal for 25 years, most recently as a Regional Sales Manager with our National Accounts team. I started back swimming for Masters back in 2015 a few times a week.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
It is hard to narrow this down, but here we go: PT’s, Swimmer parties at various swimmer houses, Red Dogs, Mad Monk, Sandbar, Stemmerman’s, The Shanakee, Level 5.
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
“Here’s to ECU….”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
As everyone moves away and starts their own family and careers, it becomes harder and harder to remain in contact with the friends that you have met in this program. Make it important to stay in contact. Remember that while you had great coaches and team mates that helped you throughout your swimming career, YOU were the secret sauce to your success. This will hold true in your life beyond swimming.
Seahawk Spotlight: Jamie (Hamill) Lally
Name: Jamie (Hamill) Lally
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of _2004___
Events: 50-yard freestyle, 100-yard freestyle, 100-yard butterfly
Degree: Physical Education
Profession: Teacher
Current residence: Columbia, SC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
I am competitive at heart so I fit in well at UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program! The competitive atmosphere was fun and made the early mornings, countless laps, and hard work all worth it. Beating East Carolina University at their home pool was one of my favorite memories. I remember Coach Allen saying “ Start the bus and let’s get out of here” because the tension was so high. UNCW vs. ECU was the most competitive dual meet we had, a true rivalry, and it was a blast! Swimming is not a contact sport but that meet was the closest it came.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
Being a part of UNCW’s Swimming and Diving program had such a big impact on my life. The friendships that were formed are priceless. The memories that were made are something I will hold close forever. The life lessons I learned in the pool from Coach Allen and Dan Forrester helped me in many ways as I entered adulthood. They were both excellent role models and encouraged me even when I learned the hard way (Like missing morning practice and having to do doubles that afternoon!).
There was a void in my life after swimming ended. Considering all the years, months, and hours put into such a wonderful sport, it was no surprise it took some time to find that passion again. I went on to coach High School Men and Women’s Swimming. Being on deck again in the presence of swimmers who shared the same passion I did was incredible. The adrenalin and competitiveness were back! These days I now have a different role! I have two young boys who have just started their swimming journey. Long or short, I’m grateful for each experience, and seeing it come full circle has been special.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
I have two boys named Brooks and Henry. They keep my husband Mike and I busy here in Columbia SC! I have taught elementary school for 13 years and will be working with high school students this coming school year. I have also worked in the mental health field as a Mental Health Coach to provide resources to people who are in need.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
I loved walking The Loop at Wrightsville Beach, a night out at Level 5, The Reel Cafe, Slice of Life, and Dockside!
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
“And remember it’s ALWAYS a great day to be a Seahawk!”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
Find the thing that brings you pure joy and connects you to who you are. Never be too busy for it. The job will be there, the chores will be there, but don’t lose your passion because that’s what makes you feel alive!
Seahawk Spotlight: Michael Ratigan
Name: Michael Ratigan
Class of: 2000
Events: 100yd & 200yd Back; 200yd & 500yd Free
Profession: Business Owner
Current Residence: Elon, NC
What is your favorite memory of being a part of UNCW’s S&D program?
· During my freshman year at UNCW, winning the CAA title in the 100yd Backstroke was a remarkable personal achievement that will forever hold a special place in my memory. Although successfully defending my title during my sophomore year was also noteworthy, it didn’t leave the same lasting impression as the incredible moment when my teammates Marc Moore and Shaun Hill joined me in sweeping the CAA podium in the 100yd Backstroke.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s S&D program impacted or influenced your life?
· Coach Allen’s swimming & diving program at UNCW played a pivotal role in shaping my journey as a successful business owner. The dedication, discipline, and teamwork fostered through the sport have been invaluable in my entrepreneurial endeavors. The relentless pursuit of excellence and the ability to adapt to challenges, both in and out of the water, instilled in me a resilient mindset that propels me forward as a business owner. Moreover, the lessons learned from balancing academics with rigorous training have honed my time management skills, enabling me to effectively prioritize tasks and make the most of every opportunity. The camaraderie and support I experienced while at UNCW have also translated into my professional life, as I value collaboration and building strong relationships with clients, partners, and employees. Overall, the experiences and lessons learned under Coach Allen’s tutelage have indelibly shaped my path as a successful business owner, empowering me to overcome obstacles, strive for excellence, and foster a thriving enterprise.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
· After completing my grad school, I relocated to New York City shortly after the tragic events of 9/11. I lived there for one year where I was the Aquatics Director of a health club. Subsequently, I made a move to South Florida, where I worked as a high school English teacher and swim coach at Pine Crest School and North Broward Prep. In 2008, I returned to North Carolina with the purpose of transforming my father’s idea of rope protection products into a thriving business venture. Our family business, Fjord, Inc.’s primary brands, Chafe-Pro® and STREP®, cater to the needs of the marine and climbing rope’s industries respectively, and have achieved worldwide distribution. Together, my father and I have been granted 15 patents in both the United States and the European Union, with an additional 8 patents currently pending.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
· The original Buddy’s & Red Dogs at Wrightsville Beach and of course P.T.’s. Though closed now, Flips BBQ on Oleander was my go-to place after surfing.
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
· Here’s to ECU!!!
Parting advice for current UNCW S&D and/or recent alumni?
· Embrace every challenge that comes your way, both in and out of the water, for it is through overcoming these obstacles that you will grow and thrive. Remember the importance of discipline, teamwork, and dedication that you have learned as swimmers, as these qualities will serve you well in any endeavor you pursue. Cherish the friendships and bonds you have formed within this program, as they are invaluable sources of support and inspiration. Finally, always believe in yourself and never settle for mediocrity. With passion, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of your goals, you have the power to achieve greatness. Trust in your abilities, embrace the journey, and let the lessons learned in the pool guide you to success in all areas of your lives. Congratulations, and best of luck in all your future endeavors, it’s a great day to be a Seahawk!!!
Seahawk Spotlight: Stephanie Lundstrom
Name: Stephanie Lundstrom (Ramsey)
UNCW Swimming & Diving Class of __07__
Events: 200 fly 500 freestyle
Degree: Elementary Education
Profession: Branch Office Administrator with Edward Jones Investments
Current residence: Concord, NC
What is your favorite memory of being part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program?
My favorite memory is when I took the conference championship in the 200 fly while claiming UNCWs school record and freshman record. I remember jumping in to warmup for this race and knowing taper came together just right by how I felt in the water. The energy of our team as I walked out for the final and the excitement at the end of the race was so overwhelming. I feel this sticks with me more due to the fact I had surgery on both shoulders during my junior year of high school and overcoming this obstacle was a great accomplishment. My teammates had a big part of this by pushing me everyday in training to be better then before and I’ll be forever grateful.
How has your experience as part of UNCW’s Swimming & Diving program impacted or influenced your life?
I feel that every part of my life has been impacted in some way by being part of this team. Whether it be life long friends, or the time management between practice and school studies, or the goal setting and how to break those down into attainable goals. These and more carry over into everyday life.
What have you been up to since your days on the UNCW pool deck?
After college I moved back to Charlotte and taught 2nd and 3rd grade for 10 years. During that time, I received my Masters in Elementary Education, I married my husband Matt and moved to Concord. After having our daughter Aubrey in 2017, I stayed home for a few years and I am now working for Edward Jones Investments.
Favorite stomping grounds from your time at UNCW?
K38 and margarita Mondays
Favorite UNCW Swimming & Diving slogan or cheer?
“It’s a great day to be a Seahawk!”
Parting advice for current UNCW Swimmers and Divers and/or recent alumni?
This quote has always stuck with me, “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.” by Booker T Washington