Coaches and Directors
Jeff Miksis, founder and head coach of Anglerfish Aquatics, is the driving force behind the program’s technical excellence. A Brown University graduate and 3-time All-American, Jeff is a Rhode Island Swimming Hall of Fame inductee, recognized for his outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport. During his collegiate career, he held multiple university records, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to swimming mastery.
As an ASCA-certified swim coach and certified triathlon coach, Jeff is a true stroke technician, renowned for his ability to refine and optimize each swimmer’s technique based on their unique strengths and needs. His attention to detail and personalized approach to stroke mechanics have propelled his 14 & under swimmers to achieve top national and New England rankings, with many earning spots in elite training camps. Most of these athletes are homegrown, having started their journey in Anglerfish’s own learn-to-swim program.
Jeff’s dedication to technical mastery and athlete development fosters a culture of precision, discipline, and growth, inspiring swimmers to reach their full potential in and out of the pool.
When Jeff isn’t at the pool, you’ll likely find him at a concert, enjoying his passion for music, often accompanied by his loyal dachshund, Pickles, who is a beloved part of the Anglerfish family.
Hillary Vendt is the Executive Director and co-founder of Anglerfish Aquatics, a thriving swim and triathlon program she launched with her friend, three-time All-American Jeff Miksis, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, Anglerfish Aquatics serves over 1,000 swimmers and triathletes annually across Greater Boston and Providence, offering a fun, safe, and structured environment for athletes of all ages and abilities.
A lifelong swimmer and former collegiate athlete, Hillary brings nearly 15 years of educational leadership experience to her role. As Head Age Group Coach, she has guided swimmers to break New England records, earn high-point titles, and achieve Sectional, Junior National, and Division I collegiate placements. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes learning, teamwork, discipline, and resilience—values that foster both athletic success and personal growth.
Beyond her work on the pool deck, Hillary has made a profound impact in the community. She has raised over $40 million for under-resourced schools, spearheaded innovative educational programs in Philadelphia and Providence, and continues to bring nearly $1 million annually in resources to the community through her leadership at Anglerfish. Her passion for mentoring youth and inspiring them to pursue careers in education and civic leadership is a driving force behind her work.
Hillary is proud to lead a world-class team that includes Daniel Forsythe, Jeff Miksis, and her husband, three-time Olympic medalist Erik Vendt, alongside a dedicated group of swim instructors. Above all, Hillary’s favorite role is being a mom.
Erik Vendt, a three-time Olympic medalist (including gold) and former USA Olympic Team Co-Captain, brings world-class expertise and leadership to his role as Performance Coach at Anglerfish Aquatics. Renowned for his relentless work ethic and strategic approach, Erik helps athletes refine their technique, build resilience, and achieve their full potential.
Outside the pool, Erik has held leadership roles at companies like bsecure, Katalyst, WHOOP, and World 1 League, where he applied data-driven innovation to optimize human performance. He brings this same precision and creativity to coaching, delivering personalized, science-backed training that inspires swimmers to excel.
Erik’s proudest titles are husband and dad, and his coaching reflects his belief in personal connection and growth. With Erik on deck, athletes can expect to train smarter, swim faster, and embrace the journey.
Daniel Forsythe is the Director of Education at Anglerfish Aquatics, where he plays a pivotal role in shaping the program’s foundational training and educational initiatives. As one of the earliest members of Anglerfish, Dan began his journey as both an athlete training over the summer and an instructor. His experience with the program contributed to his best competitive year as a senior at Springfield College, where he earned a B.S. in Secondary Education and an M.Ed. in Athletic Leadership and Administration.
Dan is the first coach many young athletes work with at Anglerfish, focusing on building a strong technical and mental foundation for long-term success. His well-rounded background includes serving as a lifeguard trainer and educator, as well as volunteering as a firefighter and EMT in his community. His dedication to education and leadership extends beyond the pool, reflecting his commitment to personal growth and community service.
As a swimmer, Dan competed for East Providence High School before continuing his career at Springfield College, where he excelled as a record-holding member of the 200 and 400 Medley Relays. His time as an assistant coach at Amherst College and his work with swim camps at the University of Texas, University of Georgia, and NC State further enriched his coaching philosophy.
Whether he’s mentoring swimmers on technique or instilling life skills, Dan is passionate about helping athletes develop confidence, resilience, and a love for the sport. When he’s not on the pool deck, Dan enjoys hiking, lifting, and exploring the outdoors.
