In his new role, Denniston will direct the training and competition preparation for the Paralympic Swimming Resident athletes, oversee the day-to-day operations of the team, including working with adjacent performance staff and assisting with national team responsibilities.

He said: "I'm thrilled to have this opportunity to work with some of best athletes in swimming.

"I’m really eager to share the knowledge and skills that I have acquired as an elite swimmer and Paralympian.

"Knowing that the swimmers and coaches I will get to work with share my enthusiasm will only strengthen the U.S. Paralympics swimming programme.

"This position is truly another dream that has come true for me."

Denniston represented the US at the 2003 World Championships in the 200 metres breaststroke but was paralysed two years later when he was sledding down some snow-covered slopes, slid into a tree and damaged his spine.

But he bounced back and competed at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing, where he was part of the US swimming team that finished top of the medals table.

They won a total of 44 medals, including 17 gold, to finish ahead of China, Ukraine and Britain.

Julie O'Neill, the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) team leader of sport performance, welcomed the appointment of Denniston, a 31-year-old from Wyoming.

She said: "We are thrilled to have Dave join our team in this position.

"His experience as an elite-level athlete, both able-bodied and as a Paralympian, will enhance his skills as a coach.

"Dave will be an outstanding leader and mentor in this role and will contribute to the overall success of the US Paralympics Swimming programme on the international field of play."

Denniston will begin his new position effective immediately.