Joey Cifelli: The Gay Diving Champion Making Pool Decks Into Safe Spaces
Young Athletes Find Their Voice with America’s Most Inspiring Coach
Remember when pools were just for swimming? Joey Cifelli’s changing that narrative. The former NCAA Division I star who grabbed bronze at the 2016 US Olympic Trials is now teaching more than just perfect dives. He’s showing young athletes it’s cool to be themselves.
After placing fourth at the World Championships Trials and landing in the top 20 at NCAA Championships, Cifelli switched lanes. Now he’s poolside, helping kids nail their techniques and their confidence.
“The end goal isn’t just winning a meet or making a team, it’s developing skills for life,” Cifelli tells OutSports. We couldn’t agree more.
Let’s talk about what happens at these training sessions. Between dives, Cifelli shares a simple truth: every splash counts. Good dives, wobbly ones – they’re all teaching moments. His secret sauce? Getting athletes to “turn their mind off” when anxiety kicks in. Because bodies remember what minds sometimes forget.
Growing up, the pool became Cifelli’s stage. Today, he’s making sure every young diver feels that same freedom. Following the footsteps of legends like Greg Louganis and Matthew Mitcham, Cifelli’s creating the kind of pool deck where everyone belongs.
What’s Making This Coach Different?
It’s not just about scoring tens. Cifelli brings a blend of top-tier experience and raw authenticity. His athletes learn that true winners come in all forms, and success isn’t measured only by medals.
So what’s next for American Diving’s favourite mentor? With every coaching session, Cifelli proves that sports can be both competitive and caring. His athletes aren’t just learning about pike positions, they’re soaking up lessons about being brave, being real, and being themselves.
