Hughes became the sixth head coach in program history for Carthage in 2023-24.
Hughes' coaching journey is marked by accomplishments showcasing his commitment to excellence and athlete development. He most recently served as an Assistant Water Polo Coach at the University of Michigan during the 2022-2023 season. In this role, he worked closely with student-athletes to refine their skills and techniques under the guidance of the Head Coach. Hughes' dedication to the sport was further demonstrated by using advanced recording and analysis tools to enhance practice and game strategies.
Prior to his tenure at the University of Michigan, Hughes made significant strides in the coaching arena. His experience includes a successful stint as the Head Water Polo Coach at Kearns Water Polo in Salt Lake City, Utah, from 2018 to 2022. During his tenure, he led the women's high school team to an impressive three state championships (2018, 2019, 2022) and guided the men's high school team to a state championship in 2021. His leadership was widely recognized, with Hughes earning the title of Utah Water Polo Coach of the Year on five occasions (2018, 2019, 2021, 2022x2).
Hughes' influence also extended to the Olympic Development Program (ODP), where he served as a coach for the Mountain Zone Youth Boys Team. His expertise in identifying and nurturing talent led to his recognition as the Top Coach at the ODP Boys National Championship in 2022. Additionally, Hughes was selected as an Assistant Coach for the USA Water Polo Youth National Team Futures Trip in Budapest, Hungary, further solidifying his reputation as a coaching standout.
As a former player of the sport, Hughes boasts an impressive collegiate background that undoubtedly contributes to his coaching prowess. He played Club Water Polo at the University of Utah, earning recognition as the Conference Player of the Year three times (2017, 2018, 2019) and amassing an array of accolades, including two National Collegiate Club Championship Most Valuable Player awards (2018, 2019) and two National Player of the Year accolades (2018, 2019).
