TYSON UPTON
Lebanon,IL
Summary
Dynamic and globally trained student-athlete, swim coach, and hospitality professional with extensive experience across elite performance environments in Australia and the United States. Former University of Florida athlete and current McKendree University honors student, serving as an NCAA SAAC representative and team leader. Brings advanced technical knowledge, leadership, communication skill, and a strong coaching presence. Passionate about athlete development, culture-building, and contributing to high-standard aquatic and athletic programs.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
High-Performance Swimmer
Australia & U.S.
- Over 15 years of high-level competitive experience in national Australian pathways and NCAA training systems.
- Advanced proficiency in freestyle and butterfly technique, underwater skills, pacing, efficiency, and race preparation.
- Developed competitive swimming techniques through regular practice and training sessions.
- Collaborated with coaches to improve performance and refine stroke mechanics.
- NCAA Champion and Record holder in the 400 Medley Relay where my team trusted me to anchor and win it for us
- Multiple GLVC conference 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishes.
- Competed with a labrum tear in order to score points for my team and do my part!
Assistant Swim Coach
- Volunteer & Pre-Professional Roles
- Delivered stroke instruction, pacing guidance, drill progression, and athlete mentorship across both nations.
- Supported meet operations including timing, marshalling, equipment logistics, and deck organization.
- Assisted head coach in developing training plans and practice schedules for swim team.
- Monitored swimmers' performance, providing feedback to enhance technique and endurance.
NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)
- Served as a representative voice for athletes, contributing to governance discussions, welfare initiatives, and communication between athletic administration and student-athletes.
- Developed teamwork skills through collaboration with diverse teammates during training and competitions.
- Enhanced time management abilities by balancing academic responsibilities with athletic commitments effectively.
- Adapted quickly to new strategies and techniques in response to coaching feedback and competition experiences.
Athletic Department Intern
Mckendree University
Lebanon, IL
12.2025 - 03.2026
- Supported McKendree Athletics with event coordination, equipment setup, operational logistics, and communication.
- Developed strong administrative awareness, organization, and reliability in athletic environments.
- Assisted in organizing athletic events and practices, ensuring smooth operations and participant satisfaction.
- Supported the coordination of team logistics, including travel arrangements and equipment management.
- Collaborated with staff to maintain accurate records of athlete performance and academic eligibility.
- Facilitated communication between coaches, athletes, and administrative staff to enhance workflow efficiency.
- Contributed to social media promotion for upcoming events, increasing community engagement and attendance.
Bartender
The Newport
01.2024 - 08.2025
- Delivered exceptional customer service in a high-volume venue.
- Maintained sanitation, safety, and responsible alcohol service while strengthening teamwork and conflict-resolution abilities.
- Prepared and served a variety of beverages in a fast-paced environment.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of bar area to ensure operational efficiency.
- Assisted customers with menu selections and provided exceptional service to enhance experience.
- Collaborated with team members to create innovative cocktail recipes that attracted clientele.
Bartender
Palm Beach Golf Club
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Managed beverage service, POS operations, opening/closing procedures, and customer interactions with professionalism.
Education
Bachelor of Science -
University of Florida
Gainesville, FLBachelor of Science - Sport Management
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL01.2025
High School Diploma - undefined
Knox Grammar School
Wahroonga, NSW01.2020
Skills
- Coaching & Athlete Development
- Stroke Mechanics & Race Strategy
- Video Analysis
- Aquatic Operations & Safety
- Meet Operations & Event Flow
- Emergency Readiness
- NCAA Governance (SAAC)
- Sports Administration & Logistics
- Athlete Mentorship
- Customer Service & Hospitality Leadership
- Conflict Resolution
- Professional Communication
- Elite athlete discipline
- Leadership presence
- Strong communication ability
- Adaptability across coaching and administrative roles
- Consistent professionalism
- Long-term commitment to excellence in athletics
- Performance analysis
- Event management
- Recruitment strategies
- Facility management
- Media relations
- Sports psychology
- Sponsorship acquisition
- Player development
- Verbal and written communication
- Creative vision
- Athletic program development
- Strength training
Certification
- ASCA Coaching Certification — Renewal in Progress
- Lifeguard Qualification — Renewal in Progress
- CPR / First Aid — Scheduled for Renewal
- Demonstrated experience in deck supervision, emergency readiness, hazard prevention, and athlete management.
Timeline
Athletic Department Intern
Mckendree University
12.2025 - 03.2026
Bartender
The Newport
01.2024 - 08.2025
Bartender
Palm Beach Golf Club
01.2022 - 01.2023
Bachelor of Science - Sport Management
McKendree University
High School Diploma - undefined
Knox Grammar School
High-Performance Swimmer
Assistant Swim Coach
NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)
Bachelor of Science -
University of Florida
PROFESSIONAL COACHING PHILOSOPHY
My coaching approach focuses on developing athletes as complete individuals. I emphasize technical excellence, discipline, and confidence-building through clear communication and structured progression. I aim to create a training environment where every swimmer feels valued, supported, and motivated toward long-term athletic and personal growth.
Team Leadership — McKendree University Swimming
Guided lane groups, mentored first-year athletes, reinforced training standards, and supported team culture.