Staff

Eric Harse is the Owner and Administrator of the Cougar Aquatic Team (CAT), where he leads the business direction of the program. Since joining CAT in 2004 and assuming ownership in 2015, Eric has helped continue the team’s tradition of developing swimmers at every level, from first-time competitors through Junior National and Senior-level athletes.

Eric’s involvement in swimming began at age seven and quickly developed into a lifelong commitment to the sport. He began coaching at seventeen with Blue Dolphin Aquatic Club in Texas and later worked with age group and high school swimmers through Alamo Area Aquatics while earning his BBA in International Business from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio.

After relocating to New Jersey in 2001, Eric remained closely connected to the swimming community and joined CAT’s coaching staff shortly thereafter. He has coached multiple training groups within the program, including Senior National, Senior Prep, and Gold level swimmers. From 2006–2008, Eric was selected as a coach for the New Jersey Swimming 13 & Over Zone Team.

Eric’s leadership philosophy focuses on long-term athlete development, technical fundamentals, and building a team culture where swimmers enjoy the process of improvement. He believes success comes from consistency, strong communication, and creating an environment where athletes are motivated to challenge themselves.

Outside of CAT, Eric serves in a leadership role with New Jersey Swimming, supporting initiatives related to governance, athlete development, and program standards across the LSC.