Jennifer Cournoyer

"I believe in meeting the athletes where they are and helping them push themselves further than they think they can go."

Norwich University’s swimming and diving program, under Coach Cournoyer’s leadership, stands among the truly elite. The record speaks for itself, boasting three-peat Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) championships during the 2023 through 2025 seasons.

Coach Highlights

• Awarded 2022-23 GNAC Coaching Staff of the Year
• Developed multiple GNAC award winners and champions

Team Highlights

2025: Norwich secures sixth-ever GNAC Championship, three-peat for first time since 2000

The overall success has been recognized well beyond the boundaries of the pool. Our swim and dive team members are not just top-notch athletes, they are also academic standouts. With a team culture where Coach Cournoyer encourages excellence in all facets of the college experience, success is the standard.

Individual Athlete Highlights

Nikky Avise '24

Avise's stellar performance in the pool, under the dedicated leadership of Coach Cournoyer, solidifies her status as one of the greatest swimmers in Norwich University history.

• GNAC Swimmer of the Year
• Conference champion
• Rookie of the Year
• Two-time team captain
• Set multiple school records

Her remarkable academic and athletic success, coupled with her display of leadership with the Norwich Corps of Cadets, rightfully gained her recognition. She truly embodies the excellence of Norwich University.

"The national recognition of both our men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams showcases these student-athletes’ dedication to being well-rounded champions. Both teams are an example of academic success as well as champions in the pool," said LtGen John Broadmeadow ’83, USMC (Ret), 25th President of Norwich University.

Q&A with Head Coach Cournoyer

What brought you to becoming a coach for your sport?

I have been collegiately coaching for 28 years; there are many reasons why I began and even more reasons why I stay. Firstly, my mother, afraid of the water, wanted to ensure her children were safe and could enjoy being around the water. My father, who never had opportunities in sports, pushed us to reach for our best. Swimming taught me a great deal about who I am.  

What excites you about this sport?

There is nothing quite like swimming and diving competitions. To leave it all in the pool takes every aspect mentally, physically, and willfully. It is a sport that not everyone can do to their peak potential.

What do you enjoy about working with student-athletes?

Helping student-athletes not only improve their sport but, more importantly, helps them grow into strong adults.

What do you like about coaching at Norwich?

The most significant reason for coaching at Norwich is the high-achieving, service-oriented student-athletes who are attracted to Norwich University. I like being a small part of aiding these young adults to grow into strong leaders.

Why is Norwich a great place for student-athletes?

Norwich has many opportunities and pathways to be involved not only in athletics but with the Corps, ROTC, or many other groups on campus for any lifestyle.

What is your approach to coaching?

I believe in meeting the athletes where they are and helping them push themselves further than they think they can go.

What is Norwich’s approach to athletics, training and being on a team? 

I believe in balance for our student-athletes. I realize that many of the students have a busy academic schedule, and the majority also have many other commitments between the corps and ROTC.