McLean County Times

The Illinois State University swimming and diving team has appointed Riley Hilbrandt as the new head coach. Dr. Jeri Beggs, ISU Interim Director of Athletics, made the announcement, expressing excitement about Hilbrandt's leadership qualities.

"We are thrilled to welcome Riley to Illinois State and look forward to her leadership of the Redbird swimming and diving program," said Beggs. "Riley brings passion and enthusiasm with her from East Carolina and a wealth of experience at various levels of swimming."

Hilbrandt joins Illinois State after three seasons as an assistant swim coach at East Carolina University. Her tenure there included significant contributions to athlete recruitment and participation in national championships.

"I would like to thank Dr. Jeri Beggs, Leanna Bordner, Paul Kabbes, Cindy Harris, and the entire Redbird athletic community for this amazing opportunity," Hilbrandt stated. "This program has had decades of success... I promise to bring enthusiasm, grit, and the utmost dedication."

Before East Carolina, Hilbrandt was an assistant coach at Clarion University and The College of Wooster. She also served as a volunteer assistant coach at the University of Nevada, Reno.

East Carolina Head Swimming & Diving Coach Matthew Jabs praised Hilbrandt: "She is a hardworking, focused, and caring individual who will connect with her student-athletes."

Steve Paska, former Illinois State Head Swimming Coach added: "Riley brings a wealth of experience... Experience can get you far... it's the relationships... that ultimately leads to excellence."

Abby Steketee noted that Hilbrandt's positive energy would elevate the program: "Her positive energy, dedication to student-athletes... will take the Redbird Swimming and Diving program to new heights."

Caroline Bevillard from East Carolina emphasized that hiring Hilbrandt demonstrates Illinois State's commitment to their athletes' holistic development.

Hilbrandt graduated from Nevada-Reno in 2017 with a degree in public health and is pursuing a master's degree in kinesiology.