Nelson steps down as PHS swim coach

PENDLETON – Pendleton High School Swim Coach Tony Nelson is retiring from that position. Now a lieutenant with the Pendleton Police Department, Nelson will become chief of police on April 1.

He posted the announcement of his retirement on the swim team’s Facebook page:

Writing this is far harder than I ever imagined, but after a great deal of reflection, I know it is time for me to step away from coaching at the end of this season.

Twelve years ago, I never could have imagined this journey. When the team needed help, I stepped in simply because my daughters were deeply entrenched in the sport. I told myself it would be temporary, just a couple of months to get through the summer until we found someone else. Somehow, those months turned into years, and those years turned into a lifetime of memories. My daughters have long since graduated and moved on, yet I am still here, holding onto something that has meant more to me than words can express.

Over the years, we have been able to bring home hardware and change some names on the record boards. But more importantly, this team became far more than practices and meets. It became family. Together we traveled across states, shared long drives and early mornings, laughed, thrown frisbees, told the same stories over and over, and yes, sometimes I yelled when I knew you were capable of more. Every moment mattered. Every single one.

In my professional life, I often meet people on the worst day of their lives. Seeing that kind of pain and heartache takes a toll. Coaching has always been my light. It has been my escape. Watching you show up day after day, work through frustration, push past doubt, and achieve things you once thought impossible has filled my heart in ways I will always cherish.

My professional responsibilities have grown and now require more of my time and energy. As difficult as it is to say, the time has come for me to step back and turn the reins over to someone else. This decision comes with a heavy heart, but also with deep gratitude for what this team has given me.

Thank you for trusting me with your time, your effort, and your hearts. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey and your family. I will forever be grateful for the relationships, the memories, and the lessons you have given me.

If there is one thing I hope you remember long after I am gone, it is this: you are capable of so much more than you think. Believe in yourself, even on the days it feels hard. I will always believe in you.

You will always be my family.

Go Bucks!

With all my heart,

Tony

2025-26 PHS Swim Team via Facebook

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