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Florida Atlantic University Athletics
Yaidel Gamboa Joins Swimming and Diving Staff
9/20/2016 12:00:00 AM | Swimming & Diving
Sept. 20, 2016
BOCA RATON, Fla. - Yaidel Gamboa has been hired as the new Florida Atlantic University diving coach, as announced by head swimming coach Lara Preacco.
"With my passion and experience in the sport of diving, and by creating unity and support amongst swimmers and divers, I hope to guide the FAU swimming and diving team to reach new heights and accomplish goals that have yet to be achieved," said Gamboa. "I want to be part of making history by winning dual meets, conference championships as well as taking student-athletes to NCAA."
After a successful diving career in his native Cuba, Gamboa coached internationally before settling in Orlando where he led the diving program at YCF (YMCA of Central Florida). While there, he produced Olympic Trials qualifiers, National Champions and finalists at nationals in Junior as well as Senior events.
"We are thrilled that Yaidel joins Florida Atlantic University as our new diving coach," said Preacco. "`Gambo' brings drive, passion and wide-ranging international experience, which will be instrumental in helping the program regain its national prominence despite the elevated competition."
Gamboa graduated from the University of La Habana (in Cuba) in 2005, with a bachelor of science in physical education and athletic training. He began diving at the age of five, and would eventually be a member of the Cuban National Team for eight years, during which he won 10 national titles.
Following his athletic career, Gamboa coached in his homeland from 2003 until 2007. During those years, his divers won four National Championship team titles. In 2007, he received an offer to coach the Zulia diving team in Venezuela, where three of his divers made the Venezuela National Junior Team. This qualified them to participate in the Central American Tournament, where they won one silver and two bronze medals. One of the three divers went on to qualify for the Junior World Championships.
Gamboa's desire to help his student-athletes excel not only in sport, but also in life, is at the heart of his coaching philosophy.
"I believe in pushing athletes to reach their highest potential no matter what their skill level is, but also ensure that they are having fun during the process and enjoying every practice," he said. "I like to guide and prepare athletes for life through the different situations that diving and sports in general present; and teach them discipline, commitment, loyalty, respect and punctuality, among other important qualities that builds a person's character."
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