Eastern swim coach Elliot McGill resigned from his position Thursday, as he has been hired as the Senior/Age Group Coach for the Nitro Swimming Club in Austin, Texas.

McGill will begin his duties with Nitro Swimming Club on April 28.

Graduate assistant Rachel McGrath with the help of Eastern athletic staff will be responsible for managing the program following the spring semester until a replacement is hired.

“Elliott has done a tremendous job as the Panthers head swim coach over the past several years,” Athletic Director Barbara Burke said in a press release. “I know this was a tough decision for him but it was a professional opportunity that will help him with the advancement of his career.”

McGill became head coach in 2011 after a short time as assistant coach. He also swam at Eastern from 2005-09, earning second team All-Summit League honors. A native of Champaign, McGill earned his degree from Eastern in 2009 and a master’s from Eastern in 2012.

“I would like to thank Barbara Burke, and the rest of the EIU Administration, for giving me this opportunity three years ago,” McGill said. “I’ve been a part of EIU swimming for nearly a decade. I look forward to becoming an engaged and proud Alumnus of EIU and the EIU Swim Program as I join Mike and Tracy with Nitro Swimming.”

During his time, the Panthers have multiple swimmers earn All-Summit League honors as well as set several school records.

Academically, the Panther swim teams have excelled with the men’s team ranking second in the country in team GPA in 2013.

“I would also like to thank the swimmers for everything they’ve done and accomplished over the last three years and to thank the Charleston Community as I have enjoyed coaching many of your children at our clinics and through the Summer Recreation program,” McGill said.

Anthony Catezone can be reached at 581-2812 or ajcatezone@eiu.edu.