About the Narwhals
The Narwhals are based out of Bartlett High School. It was founded by Coach Michael Manalansan to provide athletes with a place to chase personal goals while also being a part of a community that values accountability, progress, and team success.
Coaching Staff
MICHAEL MANALANSAN - HEAD COACH
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Coach Michael started coaching with Academy Bullets Swim Club shortly after graduating from Streamwood High School. He coached under legendary Bartlett coach Jeremy Meserole and worked as an age group coach at the Bullets' Bartlett location, producing countless 12 & under regional, state, NCSA, and zones qualifiers.
Michael got into high school coaching in 2022, starting as the Boys JV coach for the Bartlett-Streamwood Sabrehawks. That season, he helped lead the JV squad to a first place finish in their division at the Upstate Eight Conference Championships. The following school year, he officially took over as head coach of both the Boys and Girls teams at Bartlett. In his first season with the girls team, he trained the program's first IHSA girls state qualifier since 2019.
In the summer of 2025, Michael became head coach of the Bloomingdale Barracudas summer team. He led the Barracudas to an undefeated dual meet record, a 2nd place finish at the DuPage Swim and Dive Conference Championship Meet, and about two dozen team records in one season.
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Coach Michael is a coach who spends time with technique and constantly looks for ways to build mental toughness in his swimmers. He places great value in teamwork, positive culture, and accountability.​
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