BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – The Cal State Bakersfield Athletics Department has announced the hiring of Shane Pelton as its new Director of Swimming and Diving. Pelton brings nearly two decades of NCAA coaching experience to CSUB, including 10 years as a head coach within the California State University system.

“Shane brings over a decade of head coaching experience and a proven track record of building successful, competitive programs while fostering strong, meaningful relationships with his student-athletes,” said Dr. Sarah Tuohy, CSUB’s Acting Director of Athletics. “Having previously been part of the CSUB community, he understands what makes this place special and has a genuine passion for Bakersfield. He is deeply committed to connecting this program back to our community, and I am confident he will lead with integrity, energy, and purpose as we move forward.”

Most recently, Pelton served as Head Women’s Swimming Coach at Cal State East Bay, where he led all aspects of the program since 2016. During that span, Pelton guided the Pioneers to four conference titles, including two of the last three, while winning PCSC Coach of the Year honors five times. Individually, he helped the Pioneers qualify over 30 swimmers to the NCAA Division II National Championships. Out of the pool, Pelton built a program centered on competitive excellence, academic accountability, and community engagement.

Pelton is no stranger to Bakersfield, having previously served as Head Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator for the Roadrunners during the 2015–16 season. In that role, he coordinated recruiting efforts, oversaw travel and meet operations, and supported both the academic success and athletic development of CSUB student-athletes.

Stanzi McGowan, CSUB’s Associate AD for Internal Operations/SWA and the Sport Supervisor for the swim and dive program, feels confident that Pelton will help the `Runners grow and develop.

Prior to his time in the CSU system, Pelton gained valuable experience at multiple NCAA institutions, including Arizona State University and the University of Bridgeport, where he contributed to the development of NCAA qualifiers and national champions. 

Pelton expressed enthusiasm about returning to Bakersfield and leading the next chapter of the program.

“For me, this opportunity at Cal State Bakersfield ties my professional passion with my ability to be present for my family,” Pelton said. “My partner was born and raised in this community, and over the last decade I’ve grown to become a part of it as well. I’ve seen firsthand the pride, passion, and growth here, and I believe it’s a place with real potential.”

“I also believe this program, the athletes, and the community need stability. Someone who’s going to be here, invest in it, and see it through. That’s what drives me. I see a program with real potential, and I’m excited to build something meaningful, shape its culture, and grow it into something people are proud to be part of!”

With 18 years of collegiate coaching experience and a proven track record of program leadership, recruiting, and student-athlete development, Pelton is poised to elevate the `Runner swimming and diving program while continuing to build on its strong foundation of historical success and a passionate alumni group.

“This program was a powerhouse, and I believe we can restore that,” Pelton said. “I spent a year here and felt that right away.  You can see the impact this place has, especially the lifetime friendships and relationships built on this pool deck. For me, it’s about re-engaging alumni, getting them back involved, and making sure our current athletes understand what they’re a part of! We want to create opportunities for them to be present, feel connected, and be proud of where we’re headed.”

Pelton said he plans to bring a high-energy, passionate, authentic approach to coaching the `Runners.