Allenson named assistant swim coach at Keene State

             KEENE, N.H. 10/13/09 - Known for her competitiveness and leadership during her recently completed four-year Owl career, Katie Allenson has been named an assistant swim coach at Keene State College swim team.

            Allenson, a native of Clifton Park, N.Y., was a top competitor for KSC in the 200 and 500-yard freestyle and relay events.  She was a six-time All-New England swimmer and a member of five Little East champion relay teams. Allenson was a member of a talented Keene State team that won three LEC titles and captured two NEISDA championships.

            Jack Fabian, the head coach of the Keene State program, feels Allenson, who served as a senior captain, has the qualities to become a successful coach.  "Katie has a very good deck presence and has gained the respect of both men's and women's teams," said Fabian.  "She's going to be a tremendous addition to our coach staff."

            "I'm really excited that Coach Fabian has taken me on as his apprentice," said Allenson.  "I believe in Jack and I believe in the program."

            As far as her concerns of moving from the pool to the deck, Allenson says it won't be a problem.  "I'm there to help and encourage the athletes," she said.  "I'm trying not to push the limits of authority because I know I'm so young.  They also know I'm there for there for the right reasons. I respect them and they respect me."

            In September, Allenson attended the American Swim Coaches World Clinic in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.   "I wasn't sure what to expect and was a little intimidated at first," said Allenson.  "But it really sparked my interest in pursuing a career in coaching."

            Allenson also played softball at Keene State, earning All-New England and All-LEC honors.

            Prior to attending Keene State, Allenson competed on a Shenendehowa (N.Y.) High School swim team that that won the Sectional championship her senior year.