The Kitchener Waterloo Predators Volleyball Club is heartbroken to announce the passing of our dear friend, coach, and mentor, Devin Swanson. His life was tragically cut short, leaving behind a grieving community, his devoted wife Rachel, and their beautiful 6-month-old daughter, Rowyn.
From the moment Coach Devin joined the KW Predators, he brought with him a presence that was instantly felt and deeply appreciated. His warm smile had a way of putting people at ease, his encouraging words could lift the heaviest spirits, and his unwavering belief in his athletes inspired them to push beyond their limits.
He was more than a coach—he was a role model, a mentor, and a guiding force who cared just as much about the person as he did about the player. Devin’s approach to coaching was rooted in compassion and connection. He believed that building great athletes started with building great people.
He invested countless hours into training sessions, always going the extra mile to ensure each player felt valued, supported, and capable of achieving their best. His practices were filled with both hard work and laughter, blending the discipline of the sport with the joy of playing it.
To his athletes, Devin was a steady source of encouragement. Whether they were celebrating a big win or struggling through a tough loss, he was there to offer perspective, reassurance, and a reminder that growth often came through challenges.
His voice was a constant in the gym—sometimes instructive, sometimes lighthearted, but always genuine. He had a gift for finding just the right words to motivate and inspire, helping young athletes see the potential within themselves that they sometimes couldn’t yet see.
To his colleagues and fellow coaches, Devin was a trusted teammate and a dependable friend. He was quick to share ideas, collaborate on strategies, and lend a hand wherever it was needed.
His passion for volleyball was contagious, and his commitment to the KW Predators extended far beyond the court. He cared about the well-being of the club as a whole, always looking for ways to help it grow and succeed.
Devin’s impact went far beyond volleyball. His life was a testament to kindness, dedication, and humility. He had a way of making everyone feel included and important, whether they were a star player or just starting out.
In every interaction, he brought authenticity and heart, qualities that left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Outside of coaching, Devin’s greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband to Rachel, and the love between them was evident to all who knew them.
The recent arrival of their daughter Rowyn brought a new light into his life—one that friends say made his smile even brighter. Though his time with her was heartbreakingly short, his love and pride as a father were immeasurable.
The loss of Coach Devin is felt deeply across the KW Predators community. His laughter, his encouragement, and his steady, calming presence will be profoundly missed.
But while we grieve, we also hold onto the incredible legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of mentorship, compassion, and the unwavering belief that every athlete has the power to grow, not just in skill, but in character.
Though we wish we had more time, we are grateful for every moment we shared with Devin. His spirit will continue to guide us in the gym, his lessons will echo in the hearts of his athletes, and his example will inspire future generations of KW Predators.
Rest in peace, Coach Devin. You will always be a part of our family, and your light will never fade.