Coach Nicole Soukup

Coach Nicole Soukup brings a lifelong connection to swimming—first as a standout athlete and now as a passionate coach and swim parent. A former NCAA Division I swimmer at Princeton University, Nicole grew up swimming in Northern Virginia and now enjoys sharing that same love for the sport with her three children.

Nicole began her swimming journey with Cardinal Hill Swim & Racquet Club in the NVSL, where she broke the league record in the 50 backstroke and held several team records. At Langley High School, she was a dominant force, setting multiple VHSL State records in the 200 free, 500 free, and as part of the 200 medley and 400 free relays. She earned scholar-athlete honors from both PVS and USA Swimming while competing at the national level.

Nicole continued her career at Princeton, where she swam distance freestyle events and contributed to two Ivy League championship teams. A proven leader in and out of the water, she served as team captain during her senior year at both Langley and Princeton. Nicole later earned her J.D. from Notre Dame Law School.

Nicole began coaching early in her career with a local NVSL winter program and has worked with swimmers ranging from beginners to advanced athletes seeking technique refinement. In the summer, she and her family are active members of Chesterbrook Swim & Tennis Club, where she volunteers at meets and still races the occasional parent relay.

Nicole is excited to help cultivate a love for swimming and racing in Hydra’s youngest athletes. Her focus on sportsmanship, technical development, and building confidence will help 8 & Under swimmers grow both in and out of the pool.