Coaches
Nicholas Brunelli is a highly respected leader in the swimming community, known for his exceptional achievements as an athlete and coach. A standout collegiate swimmer, Nicholas was inducted into the Arizona State University Hall of Fame, a testament to his dedication and success in the sport. His competitive swimming career, marked by discipline and excellence, continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Following his time as a swimmer, Nicholas transitioned into part time coaching, where he has made a significant impact on swimmers of all levels. From 2015 to 2017, he served as the head coach for Cannon High School Swimming, guiding his team to new levels of success and fostering a positive, growth-focused environment for student-athletes. He also coached part-time for SwimMAC Carolina, one of the world's premier swim clubs, where he worked with young swimmers, including his own children, instilling in them a love for the sport and a strong work ethic.
Outside of the pool, Nicholas is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Karrin, live in the Massey Community in Fort Mill, South Carolina with his 3 children.
Nicholas’s commitment to creating opportunities for others—whether through swimming, coaching, or mentoring—reflects his belief in the transformative power of sports. His legacy continues to grow as he inspires swimmers and their families to thrive both in and out of the pool.
Laura has had a passion for swimming since she started participating in the sport year-round at the age of 5. With previous coaching experience and a background in competitive swimming, Laura is dedicated to helping swimmers of all levels improve their technique, build confidence and reach their full potential. More than just the competitive aspect of the sport, Laura aims to focus on teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth, fostering a positive and supportive environment for all athletes.
Laura grew up swimming competitively from the age of 5 through 18. Laura has very fond memories of summers spent being a part of the swim team in the development where she grew up. She has years of experience in lifeguarding, teaching swimming lessons and coaching.
Outside of coaching, Laura is a senior HR leader, mom to Wesley (8) and Bridgette (5) and wife. Laura and family moved from Westchester NY 18 months ago and they love being a part of the Massey community. In her free time, she enjoys training for and competing in triathlons, and being an enthusiastic spectator as a travel baseball and soccer mom.
Kendall Richards has a lifelong connection to summer league swimming, having grown up in Richmond, VA where she swam on the same neighborhood swim team from age 4 through 18. While she transitioned to competitive tennis in middle school, swimming remained a foundational part of her athletic upbringing and love for team sports.
Kendall is the mom of two boys, Barrett (9) and Graham (7), who both proudly swim for the Mako Sharks. After moving to Fort Mill in the summer of 2023 for her husband’s job, Kendall quickly realized the neighborhood did not yet have a swim team. Knowing firsthand the impact a swim team can have on kids and a community, she helped bring the Massey Mako Sharks to life.
Now entering her second season with the team, Kendall is excited to continue building a positive, organized, and fun program that supports swimmers of all abilities. She is passionate about creating an environment that emphasizes confidence, teamwork, sportsmanship, and long-term love for the sport.
In addition to her role with the Mako Sharks, Kendall has begun working with the YMCA Rays Swim Team, primarily supporting their strength and conditioning program. Outside of coaching, she enjoys Burn Boot Camp, playing pickleball, and shuttling her kids to their many activities. Kendall and her family are grateful to call Massey home and are proud to be part of such a connected and supportive community.
