Today we’d like to introduce you to Abbie Fish.
Hi Abbie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hi, I’m Abbie Fish (and yes, my last name really is Fish). I’m a Swim Coach and Entrepreneur. In 2019, I founded Swim Like A. Fish to make world-class stroke technique education accessible to swimmers and coaches everywhere. Since then, I’ve coached thousands of athletes worldwide, including over 140 Olympians and Paralympians, through virtual coaching, clinics, camps, and conferences. I regularly speak at ASCA, ISCA, and CSCAA events, and currently serve as a Sport Science Consultant for Swimming Singapore and a Content Provider for USA Swimming.
Swimming has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. After learning to swim at four years old, I quickly fell in love with the sport, leading to a 25-year competitive career and over 15 years of elite coaching. I was fortunate to achieve milestones such as qualifying for six Olympic Trials, competing as an SEC finalist, NCAA qualifier, and winning two USA Junior National Championships.
My coaching journey began while earning my master’s degree at the University of Georgia, where I became a proud “Double Dawg” with both B.S. and M.S. degrees in Exercise Science. Transitioning from swimmer to coach was a natural evolution, allowing me to apply my deep knowledge of stroke mechanics to help swimmers reach their full potential.
My passion lies in stroke mechanics, underwater filming, and constantly refining technique. There’s no place I’d rather be than at the bottom of a pool, helping swimmers unlock new levels of speed. My goal with Swim Like A. Fish is simple: to empower any swimmer or coach—regardless of age, experience, or location—to move through the water more efficiently and effectively.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Has my journey through swimming been a smooth road? Absolutely not. While I’ve had incredible experiences and achievements in the sport, my path has been filled with challenges. I endured three shoulder surgeries, battled the weight of high expectations, and faced the frustration of falling short of my own goals. There were times when setbacks felt insurmountable, and the disappointment of not meeting my own standards took a toll.
However, through all of these struggles, I found a new purpose in coaching. Coaching has been more than just a career shift—it has been a way to heal the swimmer in me. Helping others refine their technique, push through adversity, and reach their full potential has given me a sense of fulfillment that I never expected. I’ve learned that obstacles in swimming, and in life, don’t define you—how you respond to them does.
My hope is that through Swim Like A. Fish, I can help athletes and coaches navigate their own challenges with resilience and determination. I want every swimmer to know that setbacks are just stepping stones toward growth, and with the right mindset, support, and education, they can come out stronger on the other side.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a swim coach, technique specialist, and the founder of Swim Like A. Fish, a platform dedicated to helping swimmers and coaches refine their stroke mechanics and maximize speed through technical precision. I specialize in underwater filming, stroke analysis, and biomechanics, working with swimmers of all levels—from beginners to Olympians and Paralympians. My expertise lies in breaking down complex movements into simple, actionable changes that lead to real results in the water.
What sets me apart is my analytical approach to swimming. I don’t just teach technique—I dive deep into the biomechanics behind it. I believe that efficiency, not just effort, is what makes a swimmer faster. Through my work with Swim Like A. Fish, I’ve developed a system that allows any swimmer, regardless of age, ability, or location, to improve their mechanics and unlock their potential.
I am incredibly proud of the impact Swim Like A. Fish has had in making elite-level stroke education more accessible. Seeing swimmers and coaches take what they’ve learned from my analysis and apply it successfully in competition is incredibly rewarding. I
Beyond results in the pool, I take the most pride in helping swimmers and coaches understand swimming on a deeper level. It’s not just about going fast—it’s about moving through the water smarter. If I can help an athlete or coach unlock that “aha” moment where something clicks, then I know I’ve done my job.
Swimming has given me so much throughout my life, and coaching allows me to give back to the sport that shaped me. My mission is simple: to help every swimmer and coach reach their goals and during this journey – help everyone become better humans too!
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding the right mentor and building a strong network have been crucial in my growth as a coach, entrepreneur, and athlete. Here are some strategies that have worked well for me and advice for those looking to do the same:
1. Seek Out People Who Inspire You:
Look for individuals whose work aligns with your goals, whether it’s in coaching, business, or personal development. I’ve always admired coaches and professionals who are forward-thinking and dedicated to refining their craft. Early in my career, I connected with experienced coaches at swim clinics, conferences, and through mutual connections.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Reach Out:
Some of my best mentorship experiences started with a simple email or text message. Many successful professionals are open to sharing advice if you approach them with genuine curiosity and respect for their time.
3. Attend Conferences & Clinics:
Networking in person can be incredibly valuable. I’ve built lasting relationships by attending events like the ASCA World Clinic, ISCA Conference, and CSCAA Conventions. These gatherings create natural opportunities to meet like-minded coaches, exchange ideas, and stay updated on the newest technical trends.
4. Engage in Online Communities:
Social media and professional forums have changed the way we network. Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, Tik Tok, and even Facebook groups can connect you with experts worldwide. I’ve had great discussions with coaches, sports scientists, and athletes through these channels.
5. Offer Value, Don’t Just Take:
Networking isn’t just about what you can get—it’s about what you can give. Some of the strongest connections I’ve made have come from collaborations, exchanging ideas, or simply supporting someone else’s work.
6. Be Patient & Consistent:
Building a strong network and finding the right mentors doesn’t happen overnight. Some of my most valuable professional relationships developed over years. Stay engaged, keep learning, and be open to opportunities that come your way.
Final Thought: A mentor doesn’t always have to be someone far ahead of you—sometimes, peers and colleagues can be just as valuable. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you, and you’ll naturally grow in the right direction.
Pricing:
- All Package Prices are Available On Our Website!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.swimlikeafish.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theafish1
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fishswimfaster
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbie-fish/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/afish1
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/swimlikeafish




Image Credits
Jess Amburgey

