In episode #49 of Heavy Or Not, The OG Swim Guide, we amplify and break down the growing, explosive, criticism of USA Swimming from Michael Phelps and SwimSwam publisher,  Mel Stewart.

They, among many others, are exposing a leadership crisis that threatens the sport’s future.

• Phelps points to the steep drop in U.S. Olympic medal share (57% → 44%) and blames weak board governance.

• He presents a coalition‑backed, three‑step reform plan: independent board review, athlete‑first services, and grassroots growth.

• Stewart labels the “Colorado Springs bubble,” highlighting excessive executive pay, stagnant athlete stipends, and a complacent financial safety net.

• The board’s reaction—including a CEO bonus after a failed software rollout and registration decline—is dissected as misdirection and avoidance.

• Concrete solutions are proposed: cap top‑executive salaries, tie bonuses to clear KPIs that also raise coach and athlete compensation, and prioritize grassroots revitalization.

Update: Email sent in an ASCA newsletter:

COACHES, LET’S STAND TOGETHER, SPEAK UP -- AND PUT STRONG COACHING LEADERSHIP ON THE USA SWIMMING BOARD

All across the swimming community, people are raising their voices about USA Swimming and how it must change. With the impending announcement of a new CEO, a new course for our sport is about to be set. Now is the time for action—not just words.

The single most powerful step we can take is to fill the three open seats on the USA Swimming Board of Directors with coaches. By doing so, we can immediately infuse 20% of the board with fresh energy, new perspective, and true grassroots experience. The four coaches put forward by the Nominating Committee are outstanding leaders—each fully prepared to speak out, drive innovation, and bring the urgency we need to be ready for LA28 and beyond.

Every member of USA Swimming has a voice in this process. Your voice matters. Use it. Reach out to the delegates who represent you in the House of Delegates (see list here: 2025-hod-list.pdf) and tell them how important it is to elect coaches recommended by the Nominating Committee (learn about candidates here: 2025-board-of-directors-election-guide.pdf). This is how we ensure the board reflects the athletes and coaches who live this sport every single day.

This is our moment. Coaches are ready to lead. The future of USA Swimming will be shaped by the choices we make right now. Let’s stand together, speak up, and put strong coaching leadership on the board—where it belongs.