Coach B.J. Graham is the Head Coach of Swim Melbourne “Mahi” Masters and a U.S. Masters Swimming Level 3 Coach. He was named 2022 Florida LMSC Coach of the Year and is a recipient of the 2022 USMS Kerry O’Brien Coaching Award. In 2023, he served on the USMS National Coaches Committee, contributing to the growth of adult swimming at the national level.
A Brevard County native, B.J.’s swimming roots run deep. He began his competitive career with Brevard Swim Association under Coach Terry Schlichenmaier, went on to swim varsity at Indian River State College, and later earned a varsity scholarship at the University of Florida, training under Gregg Troy and Anthony Nesty. His athletic background includes a national title in the 100 yard butterfly at the 1996 NJCAA Championships, three-time NJCAA All-American honors, USA Swimming Senior Nationals appearances, multiple overall wins in sprint and Olympic-distance triathlon, USAT All-American recognition, and extensive open-water success, including winning the 2019 Swim Around Key West (12.5 miles) Masters 40+ division and podium finishes at the 2025 U.S. Masters Open Water Nationals (1-Mile & 5k).
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At the heart of Mahi Masters is B.J.’s applied systems approach to coaching. Practices are intentionally designed to be engaging, honest, and effective, focusing on how technique, timing, fatigue, and decision-making all work together. B.J. emphasizes purposeful training that translates to real swimming, real racing, and long-term progress. Swimmers are encouraged to understand why they’re doing something, not just what to do, creating confidence, ownership, and sustainable improvement.
In 2024, B.J. launched the Grown-Up Swimming Space Coast League, bringing fun, summer-league-style competition to adult swimmers of all backgrounds and abilities. Known for blending performance with community, structure with fun, and ambition with inclusivity, Coach B.J. believes every season should have a purpose and that swimming should remain challenging, rewarding, and enjoyable at every level. Whether swimmers come for fitness, friendship, or fast times, they’ll find a place and a path forward with Mahi Masters.
