In a shocking turn of events, a prominent figure in the swimming community has been hit with a three-year suspension for fraud, leaving many to question the integrity of the sport’s leadership. Matt Williams, the owner and founder of Phoenix Swimming in Haverville, Massachusetts, has been suspended by USA Swimming, effective from June 4, 2025, through June 4, 2028. But here’s where it gets controversial: despite the suspension, Williams was reportedly seen coaching at a swim meet after the suspension dates, raising eyebrows about the enforcement of such penalties.
Williams’ suspension stems from violations of the USA Swimming Code of Conduct (2024), specifically sections 304.3.9 (fraud, deception, or dishonesty in connection with USA Swimming activities) and 304.3.12 (detrimental conduct to USA Swimming or the sport of swimming). While Williams appealed the decision, the suspension was only officially enforced in November 2024, according to a USA Swimming spokesperson.
This isn’t Williams’ first brush with legal trouble. In 2021, Stephen Van Der Beken, head coach of the Manchester Swim Team, sued Williams and Phoenix Swimming for breach of contract. The dispute arose from a 2016 agreement in which Williams purchased 50% ownership of Van Der Beken’s swim team business. After a three-day trial in June 2024, Williams was ordered to pay Van Der Beken $243,212 in damages and $58,603.48 in attorney’s fees. When Williams failed to comply, Van Der Beken sought further legal action, culminating in an involuntary bankruptcy petition filed in January 2025.
And this is the part most people miss: Phoenix Swimming was administratively dissolved in September 2024 for failing to file its 2023 and 2024 annual reports in New Hampshire. This isn’t the first time the company has faced dissolution—it happened once before in 2015, only to be reinstated after fees were paid.
The legal saga took another twist when the Bankruptcy Court dismissed Van Der Beken’s petition, ruling that Phoenix Swimming was “generally paying its debts as they become due.” However, the judge did not award Phoenix fees, costs, or damages, leaving the financial dispute unresolved.
Is this suspension enough to restore trust in the system? Or does it highlight deeper issues within swimming’s governance? Let’s discuss in the comments—do you think Williams’ suspension is justified, or is there more to the story?
About the Author:
James Sutherland, a former collegiate swimmer specializing in the 200 free, back, and IM, brings a unique perspective to sports journalism. After graduating from Laurentian University with a degree in economics and completing his graduate studies in sports journalism, James has become a trusted voice in the swimming community. For more insights, visit his bio here.
