David King
David King
Elite Clinician
David King
World University Games Multi-Medalist | NCAA Bronze Medalist | ACC Champion
Base: Charlottesville, Virginia
College: University of Virginia (UVA)
Career Highlights
International Success
- World University Games (Berlin): (3x Gold Medalist, 1x Silver Medalist)
- US National Team Member
NCAA Division I Standout (University of Virginia)
- 2026 NCAA Championships Bronze Medalist (200 Backstroke)
- 2026 ACC Champion: 200 Backstroke
USA Swimming
- Multiple-Event U.S. Olympic Trials Qualifier
- Competing for the reigning powerhouse UVA Cavaliers with elite coaches Todd DeSorbo and Gary Taylor.
Bio
David King is a standout backstroker and individual medley specialist for the University of Virginia. Training in Charlottesville under the guidance of coaches Todd DeSorbo and Gary Taylor, David has established himself as a premier force in both the NCAA and international arenas. His 2026 campaign was highlighted by capturing the ACC Championship title in the 200 Backstroke and earning an NCAA Bronze medal in the same event.
On the international stage, David broke through by making his first US National Team and representing Team USA at the World University Games in Berlin, where he brought home an incredible three Gold medals and one Silver. His journey to the top, however, required immense resilience. After heartbreakingly missing his first Olympic Trials cut in the 400 IM by just 0.06 seconds, he doubled down on his efforts and successfully qualified in multiple events just months later. Known for his attention to detail and approachability, David uses his perfectionist mindset and unyielding discipline to mentor and inspire the next generation of competitive swimmers.
From the Clinician
You Can’t Cheat the Process
“You can’t cheat the process. You get as much out of this sport as you put into it. Even if the results you desire don’t show immediately, continue to take the harder route and do the right things, and you will eventually hit your goals.”
Overcoming Heartbreak
“My journey hasn’t always been easy. I vividly remember missing my first Olympic Trials qualifying time in the 400 IM by exactly 0.06 seconds. But instead of letting it defeat me, I used it, and eventually qualified in multiple events months later. Getting to make my first US National Team and representing my country in Berlin at the World University Games were moments that proved the setbacks were worth it.”
The Little Things Out of the Pool
“To advance in this sport, you have to do the right things out of the pool that don’t take physical effort—like eating well, prioritizing your sleep, and balancing school with having fun. I am extremely disciplined and have set a foundation of skills through swimming that I can take with me and apply to all facets of my life, including my future relationships and occupations.”
Building Better People
“I am one of the most friendly and open-minded people you will ever meet, and my goal is to assist the next generation in becoming the best swimmers possible. But more importantly, I believe that becoming a great swimmer is awesome, but becoming an even better person throughout the process is what truly makes our sport special. I love giving back to the community that helped me grow, and I am always willing to go the extra mile to lend a helping hand.”
Find a Fitter & Faster swim camp near you.
