Legendary Diving Coach Hobie Billingsley Passes Away at 94; Left impact on World
by MEG KELLER-MARVIN16 July 2022
Passages: Legendary Diving Coach Hobie Billingsley Dies at 94; Left Impact on the World
Hobie Billingsley, a 1983 International Swimming Hall of Fame Honor Diving Coach, and one of the most beloved diving coaches of a generation, passed away early this morning, July 16, 2022. He was 94. Hobie was the head diving coach at Indiana University for 30 years, spanning 1959 to 1989, alongside swimming coach, Dr. James “Doc” Counsilman.” The two legends made aquatic history together, guiding a program to elite status. During Billingsley’s tenure at IU, his divers won six NCAA and 23 Big Ten team championships. He coached individuals to an astounding 115 national titles, 22 Big Ten championships and six Olympic medals. His ISHOF Honorees (four) and Olympic gold and bronze medalists include Lesley Bush, Mark Lenzi, Kenny Sitzburger, Cynthia Potter, Win Young, and Jim Henry.
Billingsley began his career as an outstanding diver in his own right, competing under the great ISHOF Honor Coach, Mike Peppe, at Ohio State University. He was an All-American on both boards in 1945, yet following his freshman year at Ohio State, Billingsley joined the Army Air-Corps, where he served his country in Japan. Upon returning, he returned to Indiana and again won All-America Honors in 1948, 1949 and 1950.
In addition to being one of the top coaches in the country, Billingsley continued to enjoy diving and he and his good friend, Bruce Harlan, a fellow IU teammate (not to mention Olympic gold and silver medalist), and later on with Dick Kimball, toured for 15 summers establishing himself as one of the greatest comedy divers of all time. Years later, he regularly came to Fort Lauderdale and was always a favorite at the Hall of Fame water shows, along with Kimball, Ron O’Brien and Julie Krug for many years. He came to the Hall of Fame several times a year, whether it was bringing his team for winter training at the College Swim Forum along with Counsilman, or attending ISHOF’s International Diving Meet every spring with his top-ranked divers.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
In addition to training divers and coaches around the globe, Billingsley was a respected speaker on the history of the sport, as well as technique and ethics. He published two editions of his Diving Illustrated, a manual for coaches and divers, offering a detailed technical book of diving.
Simply put, Hobie Billingsley was one of the greatest, most beloved diving coaches in the world. He got the greatest joy from coaching diving, sharing his knowledge, and helping anyone who wanted to learn. He was most proud of the athletes who followed in his footsteps and became coaches themselves and continued to share the knowledge of the sport. And there were too many to count.
Hobie Billingsley was the recipient of every award diving had to offer. While at IU, he was voted the U.S. Diving Coach of the Year seven consecutive times between 1964-1970. He was the 1964 recipient of the Fred Cady Award, and the 1973 recipient of the Mike Malone Award. He was also the first NCAA Coach of the Year, first presented in 1982. He is a member of the Indiana University Athletics Hall of Fame (1994) and in that same year, he was presented the Sammy Lee Award, the most prestigious award in the world for the sport of diving. And maybe the greatest honor, the Indiana University swimming and diving facility in Bloomington, is named the Counsilman-Billingsley Aquatics Center.
“We had a lot of great times together, coaching, doing water shows, traveling around the world. I will never forget his great smile and how happy he was and made others happy too. He was the one responsible for introducing coaching based on science. Hobie will be sorely missed by so many people. Thanks Hobie for all the things you gave us,” said Ron O’Brien, his longtime friend, rival coach and eight-time U.S. Olympic team Coach.
“Hobie taught us far more than how to be champion divers. His greater legacy will be how he showed us to love each other and walk with each other in this community of divers around the world,” said Steve McFarland, Past President of USA Diving and FINA Technical High Diving Committee Member and Chairman, Duraflex International Corporation.
“Hobie dedicated much of his life to assisting others in learning the skills for personal success. His greatest gift was imparting his wisdom in a way that turned our self-doubt into self-belief. I am grateful for his genius. He was a remarkable human,” said Cynthia Potter, an ISHOF honoree, four-time Olympian and one of Billingsley’s most successful female divers.
Legendary Announcer Sam Kendricks loses battle with Cancer – His Voice will be missed
by DAVID RIEDER – SENIOR WRITER06 July 2022
Legendary Announcer Sam Kendricks Passes Away: His Voice Will Be Missed
Sam Kendricks, one of the main voices on deck at major swim meets in the United States over the last two decades, passed away Wednesday after a nine-month battle with Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Kendricks discovered the cancer in September 2021 and had surgery to remove the mass, but the cancer had metastasized to his torso by December. He spent the last six months undergoing treatment for the disease.
Kendricks was the primary announcer for the NCAA Division I swimming championships over the last decade, and he was one of the primary voices for USA Swimming competitions for more than two decades. He was part of the announcing team at five Olympic Trials (2000, 2004, 2008, 2012 and 2016). In addition, he worked as a residential realtor in Los Alamos, New Mexico.
Before that, Kendricks was an undergraduate student manager for the University of Texas men’s team under coach Eddie Reese, including the first national-title-winning squad in 1981. He was later an assistant coach for the Texas women under Richard Quick from 1985 to 1987, and then he coached club teams in Arkansas for eight years. After leaving club coaching, he was asked to return to one of his old clubs to announce a meet, and his career in announcing took off from there.
As an announcer, Kendricks developed a signature style that brought excitement to crowds around all corners of the country. He reserved his primary catchphrase, “BOOM-SHAKA-LAKA,” for the most impressive of swims. As an announcer, Kendricks hoped to showcase each swimmer in a way that would make their experience at the meet as positive as possible.
“My goal is really just to highlight and find experiences and memories and spot situations that really accentuate what is great about that swimmer, that relay, that team, whatever it is, and remember that there are people in the stands that this means so much on behalf of that swimmer or diver that you want to give them as much as you can,” Kendricks told Swimming World earlier this year.
Kendricks’ friend Bob Staab posted a message in the Facebook group “BoomshakalakaSam,” which had been used to provide updates on Kendricks during his battle with cancer.
It is with sadness that I let you know our friend Sam Kendricks peacefully passed away today at home in Los Alamos, N.M., at the age of 59 from Merkel Cell Carcinoma with his loving wife Shay at his side. Sam would have turned 60 on July 31.I have many stories and memories of Sam over the last 35 years that I will never forget and know many of you have known him for much longer and have many as well. I hope that you will take time to share some of those memories with everyone on this page.Shay would like to thank all of you for the support you have given to Sam and her over these past months and has requested some privacy during this time. Below is a note from Shay.*******For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun? And when the earth shall claim your limbs, then shall you truly dance.” ~ Khalil GibranIt breaks my heart to have to share this news. This morning, my husband, Sam Kendricks, departed this realm of existence for the next. He did not wish to leave us so soon, but his body grew weary.Sam was lighthearted and fun unless the situation required seriousness. He specifically asked that he not have a traditional funeral.While I don’t have any plans for a service yet, I will be organizing a celebration of life service for later this summer in Los Alamos and again in Austin at the University of Texas in the fall.In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the J. Robert Oppenheimer House Fund of the Los Alamos Historical Society: https://losalamoshistory.networkforgood.com/projects/107843-oppenheimer-house-preservation. The donations support the work of conserving the Oppenheimer home for future generations. Sam was passionate about the home and the history it holds.
Ursula Carlile, joins husband Forbes, as she is to be inducted as Honor Coach in ISHOF Class of 2022
by MEG KELLER-MARVIN 7 July 2022,
For more than half a century, Ursula Carlile, teamed up with her husband, Forbes, to form swimming’s first internationally-prominent husband and wife coaching team. The two collaborated at every level of the sport by sharing teaching, coaching, filming and administrative duties at their own Ryde Swim Club. The club originated in a backyard pool of their home in the Sydney suburb of Ryde. The pool is still there today! There they taught thousands of youngsters to swim and have coached some of Australia’s most celebrated Olympians.
Ursula and Forbes Carlile Photo Courtesy:
Ursula Carlile began her international coaching career in the Netherlands, where she and Forbes co-coached the Dutch National team from 1962-64 and where she was the Dutch Olympic Co-Head Coach with her husband. In the following decade, the husband and wife team made frequent periodic visits to the People’s Republic of China, working with China’s top coaches and national team. In 1980, the Carlile’s were named Honorary Olympic Coaches for China.
Ursula Carlile Photo Courtesy:
In 1972, Ursula became Australia’s first female Olympic swimming coach when she was selected as an assistant coach to Don Talbot, for the Munich Games. She served as an assistant to Terry Gathercole the next year at the World Championships, held in Cali, Colombia. In 1974, she was selected as Australia’s first female Head Coach for the Commonwealth Games, held in Christchurch, New Zealand. In yet another sterling accomplishment, during the 1970’s and ’80’s, she and Forbes coached five Olympians – all of them world record-holders: Karen Moras, Shane Gould, Jenny Turrall, Gail Neal and John Bennett.
In the days when Forbes Carlile could not secure official staff selection to the Australian Olympic team, it was Ursula Carlile who accompanied Gould as chaperone at the Munich 1972 Games. Forbes was there in a commentator’s position with the media as Gould raced to what remains a record five-medal haul in solo events among women, her three golds secured with World records, a silver and a bronze completing a unique collection for a a pioneering pantheon. Gould is Dr. Shane Gould these days.
A Life Member of the Australian Swimming Coaches and Teachers Association, Ursula Carlile lectured frequently around the world until lately. Forbes, pioneer of the pace clock and several aspects of swimming science, entered the Hall of Fame in 1976. He passed away on the eve of the Rio Olympic Games in 2016.
Ursula Carlile and swimmers at Ryde Swim Club, Sydney, Australia Photo Courtesy:
Come join Carlile and this year’s class of 2022 in Ft. Lauderdale. If you cannot join us, consider making a donation.
To make a donation, click here: https://ishof.org/donate/
This year’s International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees include:
International Swimming Hall of Fame 2022 Honorees
Craig Beardsley (USA) – Swimming
Natalie Coughlin (USA) – Swimming
Marilyn Bell (CAN) – Open Water Swimming
Michael Klim (AUS) – Swimming
Jon Sieben (AUS) – Swimming
Daichi Suzuki (JPN)– Swimming
Matthew Mitcham (AUS) – Diving
Ursula Carlile (AUS) – Coach
Peter Hürzeler (SUI) – ISHOF Contributor
Mirko Vicevic (YUG/MON) Water Polo
Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees
Doris Steadman (USA) Masters Swimmer
Dr. Jane Katz (USA) Masters Contributor
Edith Bohm (GER) Masters Swimmer
Olga Kokorina (RUS) Masters Swimmer
Shigehisha Sekikawa (JPN) Masters Swimmer
Birte Hohlstein (GER) Masters Artistic Swimming
Guenther Wolf (GER) Masters Water Polo
The Induction Weekend Schedule
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Official 57th Annual International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner
5:30 pm VIP Reception6:30 –10:00 pm Induction Ceremony & Dinner
HOTEL INFORMATION
Host Hotel: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Upscale retreat with private beach access, two pools, four restaurants, full service spa and oceanside bar. Location of the Saturday evening induction ceremony. ¼ mile south of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
3030 Holiday Drive, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 525-4000
Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $229 per night, BOOK YOUR ROOM HERE
($39 Resort fee – Guests can opt out if not interested in resort amenities)
Additional Hotel Option: Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach
440 Seabreeze Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 524-8733 Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $189 per night
Honoree Ceremony October 15, 2022 Last Day to Book: Friday, September 30, 2022
Aussie Swimmer Michael Klim to be inducted into ISHOF as part of the Class of 2022
Michael Klim has been called the best relay swimmer ever. He is a three-time Olympian, multi-time world champion and 21-time world record holder. 1998 was Klim’s year in the sun. In January, the FINA World Aquatics Championships were held in Perth, Western Australia, and in front of a boisterous home crowd, he was the leading swimmer of the meet. He triumphed in the 200m freestyle and the 100m butterfly, added silver in the 100m freestyle and bronze in the 50m freestyle. He was a member of each of Australia’s three relay teams, winning gold in the 4×200m freestyle relay and 4×100m medley relay, and a silver in the 4×100m freestyle relay.
Michael Klim at World Championships
Michael Klim and the gold-medal Australian Relay team at the 2000 Sydney Olympics
At the 2000 Summer Olympics, Klim set a world record (48.18) leading off the 4×100m freestyle relay, which paved the way for a world record (3:13.67), beating the Americans in this event for the first time in Olympic history. Three days later, he was part of the 4×200m freestyle relay, which set another world record (7:07.05), which left the opposition over 5 seconds in arrears on its way to victory.
More about Michael Klim
Michael Klim holding the Australian flag with his medals.
His 100m freestyle world record, was bested by Pieter van den Hoogenband in the semi’s. In the final, he turned first at the wall, but his legs gave out in the second half and he placed fourth. In the 100m butterfly, he was the world record holder, again turning first at the wall heavily under world record pace but was cut down in the closing stages by Sweden’s Lars Frölander, finishing second. On the final night, he claimed silver as part of the 4×100m medley relay team. Still quite a performance.
Come join Klim and this year’s class of 2022 in Ft. Lauderdale. If you cannot join us, consider making a donation.
To make a donation, click here: https://ishof.org/donate/
This year’s International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees include:
International Swimming Hall of Fame 2022 Honorees
Craig Beardsley (USA) – Swimming
Natalie Coughlin (USA) – Swimming
Marilyn Bell (CAN) – Open Water Swimming
Michael Klim (AUS) – Swimming
Jon Sieben (AUS) – Swimming
Daichi Suzuki (JPN)– Swimming
Matthew Mitcham (AUS) – Diving
Ursula Carlile (AUS) – Coach
Peter Hürzeler (SUI) – ISHOF Contributor
Mirko Vicevic (YUG/MON) Water Polo
Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees
Doris Steadman (USA) Masters Swimmer
Dr. Jane Katz (USA) Masters Contributor
Edith Bohm (GER) Masters Swimmer
Olga Kokorina (RUS) Masters Swimmer
Shigehisha Sekikawa (JPN) Masters Swimmer
Birte Hohlstein (GER) Masters Artistic Swimming
Guenther Wolf (GER) Masters Water Polo
The Induction Weekend Schedule
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Official 57th Annual International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner
5:30 pm VIP Reception6:30 –10:00 pm Induction Ceremony & Dinner
HOTEL INFORMATION
Host Hotel: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Upscale retreat with private beach access, two pools, four restaurants, full service spa and oceanside bar. Location of the Saturday evening induction ceremony. ¼ mile south of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
3030 Holiday Drive, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 525-4000
Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $229 per night, BOOK YOUR ROOM HERE
($39 Resort fee – Guests can opt out if not interested in resort amenities)
Additional Hotel Option: Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach
440 Seabreeze Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 524-8733 Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $189 per night
Honoree Ceremony October 15, 2022 Last Day to Book: Friday, September 30, 2022
Australian Diver, Matthew Mitcham to be inducted into ISHOF’s Class of 2022
Matthew Mitcham, Honor Diver, Class of 2022
Australian Diver, Matthew Mitcham is credited with having received the highest single-dive score in Olympic history. At the 2008 Olympic Games, in Beijing, China, Mitcham chose to execute a two-and-one-half somersault with two-and-one-half twists in the pike position for his last dive. The dive had a very high degree of difficulty with 3.8. Mitcham scored four 10’s, giving him, not only the highest score on a single dive ever, but the gold medal for the event as well.
Matthew Mitcham at 2008 Beijing Olympic Games
By winning the 10-meter platform in 2008, Matthew Mitcham became the first Australian to win an Olympic gold medal in diving, since Dick Eve at the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris, France.
Matthew Mitcham winning gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympics
More about Matthew Mitcham:
Although the platform was Mitcham’s favored event, he was quite good on the springboard as well. At the 2009 World Championships, Mitcham won the bronze medal on the 1-meter, silver on the 1-meter, synchro 3-meter, 10 meter and synchro 10-meter, and at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, he took gold in the synchro 10-meter platform and silver in the 1-meter and synchro 3-meter.
Matthew Mitcham along with the rest of the Australian Olympic team
Mitcham wrote his autobiography in 2012, “Twists and Turns.” Soon afterward, it was made into a cabaret show, starring Mitcham, and travelled around the country of Australia (2014-15) getting great reviews.
Come join Mitcham and this year’s class of 2022 in Ft. Lauderdale. If you cannot join us, consider making a donation.
To make a donation, click here: https://ishof.org/donate/
This year’s International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees include:
International Swimming Hall of Fame 2022 Honorees
Craig Beardsley (USA) – Swimming
Natalie Coughlin (USA) – Swimming
Marilyn Bell (CAN) – Open Water Swimming
Michael Klim (AUS) – Swimming
Jon Sieben (AUS) – Swimming
Daichi Suzuki (JPN)– Swimming
Matthew Mitcham (AUS) – Diving
Ursula Carlile (AUS) – Coach
Peter Hürzeler (SUI) – ISHOF Contributor
Mirko Vicevic (YUG/MON) Water Polo
Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees
Doris Steadman (USA) Masters Swimmer
Dr. Jane Katz (USA) Masters Contributor
Edith Bohm (GER) Masters Swimmer
Olga Kokorina (RUS) Masters Swimmer
Shigehisha Sekikawa (JPN) Masters Swimmer
Birte Hohlstein (GER) Masters Artistic Swimming
Guenther Wolf (GER) Masters Water Polo
The Induction Weekend Schedule
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Official 57th Annual International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner
5:30 pm VIP Reception6:30 –10:00 pm Induction Ceremony & Dinner
HOTEL INFORMATION
Host Hotel: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Upscale retreat with private beach access, two pools, four restaurants, full service spa and oceanside bar. Location of the Saturday evening induction ceremony. ¼ mile south of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
3030 Holiday Drive, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 525-4000
Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $229 per night, BOOK YOUR ROOM HERE
($39 Resort fee – Guests can opt out if not interested in resort amenities)
Additional Hotel Option: Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach
440 Seabreeze Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 524-8733 Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $189 per night
Honoree Ceremony October 15, 2022 Last Day to Book: Friday, September 30, 2022
Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center and the City of Fort Lauderdale host Media Day, June 6, 2022
Fort Lauderdale’s new 27-meter Tower
The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center and the City of Fort Lauderdale host Media Day, June 6, 2022 Lauderdale Aquatic Center was quite the exciting place on Monday, June 6, as they hosted their first Media Day, with the new 27-meter tower front and center, in conjunction with USA Diving and Red Bull. The event highlighted members of the Fort Lauderdale Diving Team from the grassroots lessons programs to Olympians and World Champion high divers.
Topping the list, was World Champion, Stephen LoBue and 2020 Olympian Brandon Loschiavo, performing dives off the new state of the art tower, which is the only one in the western hemisphere.
For more information on media day, read the great article by the Fort Lauderdale Sun Sentinel: Read Here
Jack Bauerle Retiring After 44 Seasons as Georgia Head Coach; Versfeld and Williams Moreno to head programs
by DAVID RIEDER 08 June 2022,
Jack Bauerle Retiring After 44 Seasons as Georgia Head Coach
Since 1978, Jack Bauerle has led the women’s swimming program at the University of Georgia, and he added head coaching duties for the men’s team in 1983. Now, the 70-year-old Bauerle will be stepping down.
He announced his retirement Tuesday. “It’s time for me, for my family, and for my team,” Bauerle said in a statement released by the team.
During his run with the Bulldogs, Bauerle led the Georgia women to 12 SEC team titles and seven national championships, the most recent coming in 2016. That final title tied Bauerle with Richard Quick with a record seven women’s national titles at one school.
Additionally, Bauerle was the head coach for the U.S. Olympic women’s team at the 2008 Games in Beijing, an assistant on the women’s staff in 2000 and an assistant on the men’s staff in 2016 and 2020. He served as part of the combined staff in 2021 and as a personal coach in 2004 and 2012. Bauerle was also the head women’s coach for three World Championship teams (2003, 2005 and 2011).
In Bauerle’s stead step Neil Versfeld to lead the men’s program and Stefanie Williams Moreno to head the women’s squad. Diving head coach Chris Colwill will remain, working with both programs.
Bauerle’s full statement on his retirement is posted below:
First, I want to thank my wife Leigh Ann, and my sons John, Magill and Duke for their commitment and sacrifice over the years. Leigh Ann has not only been a huge source of support, but my greatest motivator. The sport of swimming runs year-round and can be all-consuming at times, but they have constantly been understanding and supportive.Thank you to our president Jere Morehead, our athletic director Josh Brooks, and our sport facilitator Darrice Griffin for their support. President Morehead and Darrice have been critical in helping us navigate these past few years, and with Josh, one of my few regrets is that I only wish we had more time to work together. I also want to share my gratitude to Vince Dooley and Liz Murphey for taking a chance on me in 1979 and entrusting me with this program. Working for and knowing Coach Dooley has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life, and I cherish our friendship.Thank you to the student-athletes for everything they have given me over the years. They have truly motivated me as much I have motivated them. During my time, we have had the privilege of coaching 87 Olympians from 20 different nations, bringing home 40 medals in the process. Last year in Tokyo was another major success for our program. In addition to our Olympic success, 62 different athletes have won 175 NCAA championships, with hundreds of All-America honors. I have had so many great kids, and I miss so many of them every day.But our accomplishments have not only come in the water, but in the classroom as well. Over 43 seasons, our program has produced three NCAA Woman of the Year winners and 39 NCAA postgraduate scholarship recipients, more than most athletic departments across the country. Those statistics are the ones that I am proudest of.Thank you to the coaches I have had the pleasure of working with over all these years. I will miss the conversation, humor, and banter on the deck at 5:30 a.m. We definitely solved a lot of problems before the world woke up every morning, and I am grateful for their dedication and assistance. I especially want to thank Harvey Humphries for serving at my side for 39 years. I am excited to see the coaching careers of my athletes unfold, both here at Georgia and throughout the swimming world.Additionally, special thanks to the colleagues and mentors who have helped me become a better coach during my career. I specifically want to thank Bob Bowman, Frank Busch, Eddie Reese, Dick Shoulberg, and Jon Urbanchek for their friendship and guidance.Finally, thank you to the countless members of our support staff who have given their time and talents toward making our program the best one possible. In particular, I want to thank the employees of the Ramsey Center for maintaining a world-class facility for our athletes and our university.I am not yet sure of what I am going to be doing immediately, but I’ll be doing something. When I left Philadelphia for Athens in 1970, I fell in love with Georgia, but I could have never predicted the good fortune I would encounter and the wonderful people I would meet. I will miss being on the deck every day, but I am forever proud of everything we have accomplished at the University of Georgia.
A half-century career in Athens
Prior to becoming head coach of the Bulldogs, Bauerle was an assistant coach for the Georgia women for three years after he swam for Georgia from 1971 until 1974 as a butterfly and freestyle specialist.
According to Bauerle’s profile on the University of Georgia’s website, he helped lead 62 different swimmers to 175 national championships at Georgia, and his teams finished in the top 10 at the NCAA Championships on 48 occasions. The Georgia women finished in the top five in 21 of 22 seasons between 1995 and 2017, and the team won 103 consecutive dual meets from Nov. 8, 1995 through Jan. 5, 2017. The Texas women, led by former Georgia assistant Carol Capitani, broke that streak on Jan. 14, 2017.
His women’s teams won 342 dual meets, one of only two coaches (with former Boston College coach Tom Groden) to eclipse 300. Including men’s meets, he was 595-134-4 all-time in dual meets.
Bauerle mentored 304 student-athletes earning 2,116 All-America citations. He was an 18-time SEC Coach of the Year (16 with the women, two with the men men) and seven times the National Women’s Coach of the Year.
Most recently, Bauerle was part of the U.S. Olympic team coaching staff last season after he coached Chase Kalisz, Jay Litherland, Nic Fink, Andrew Wilson, Olivia Smoliga and Natalie Hinds to spots in Tokyo. Additionally, Olympians Allison Schmitt, Hali Flickinger and Gunnar Bentz all qualified for the team after racing collegiately for the Bulldogs and spending a large chunk of their career in Athens. This year, another Georgia-trained athlete made the jump to the sport’s elite level as Luca Urlando won the 200 fly at the U.S. International Team Trials. In all, he mentored 87 Olympians for 20 different nations that won 15 gold and 38 total medals.
“It is a bittersweet moment in Georgia Athletics history. Jack has been the foundation of unparalleled success of our men’s and women’s swimming and diving program for a half a century,” Director of Athletics Josh Brooks said in a team statement. “While we will miss him on the pool deck, we know that Jack will always be a part of our athletics family, and I look forward to working with him in different capacities as an involved alumnus. We wish him the very best in this next phase of his life.”
“I have had the great honor of working with Jack Bauerle since 1999, when I led the UGA Honors Program and so many of Jack’s student-athletes were Honors Students and Foundation Fellows,” University of Georgia President Jere W. Morehead said. “Jack is an iconic figure at UGA and within the global swimming community, having won multiple national championships while coaching and mentoring many All-Americans and NCAA post-graduate scholars. His coaching record at Georgia and in the Olympics is unmatched in our athletic history and, on behalf of the entire University of Georgia community, I thank him for his profound contributions to our institution.”
Moving forward
The university announced it would “make some organizational changes” in dividing leadership of the programs.
Photo Courtesy: Georgia Athletics
Neil Versfeld has spent he last three seasons as an associate head coach. A 2009 graduate of Georgia, he won a national title as a senior, setting an NCAA record in the 200 breaststroke. He competed internationally for South Africa, including at the 2008 Olympics, before a professional career. Versfeld coached at Seal Swimming Club in South Africa, Swim Atlanta and Georgia Tech as an assistant before returning to Athens.
“I am humbled and honored to be named the head coach of the Georgia Men’s Swimming and Diving team,” Versfeld said. “I am incredibly grateful to Jere Morehead, Josh Brooks, and Darrice Griffin for this opportunity, and to Jack Bauerle for his mentorship and leadership over the past two decades. I could not be more excited to build upon Jack’s legacy in this next chapter.”
Stefanie Williams Moreno is likewise an alum who has spent the last 10 years in Athens, including four as an associate head coach. Her work has been primarily with the backstroke and middle-distance groups.
She competed for Georgia from 1998-02, winning the program’s first three NCAA titles and becoming a 28-time All-America. She won four NCAA titles in relays, two in American records, and was inducted to the University of Georgia Circle of Honor in 2017. Williams Moreno spent three years as an assistant coach at the University of Missouri and four at Ohio State before returning to Athens in 2012.
“I could not be more honored and humbled by this new endeavor. I want to thank Jere Morehead, Josh Brooks, Darrice Griffin, and Jack Bauerle for their confidence in me to lead this remarkable program,” Williams Moreno said. “As both an athlete and coach, the University of Georgia and its athletic department have significantly impacted who I am today. I am excited for the opportunity and challenge of continuing the proud tradition of Georgia Women’s Swimming and Diving established under Jack Bauerle.”
Georgia Athletics is planning a celebration of Bauerle’s career at a date to be determined in the fall of 2022.
Australian Butterflier, Jon Sieben to be Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame as Part of Class of 2022
by MEG KELLER-MARVIN June 15, 2022
Aussie Jon Sieben set the world record with a blistering 1:57.04 in the 200m butterfly, winning the event in Los Angeles, in the major upset of the 1984 Olympic Games. He surprised everyone and beat Michael Gross of Germany. The record stood for 11 months until Gross regained it in 1985. Sieben continued swimming through two more Olympic cycles, 1988, Seoul and 1992 Barcelona.
Jon Sieben on the podium during the 1984 Olympics Photo Courtesy: Jon Sieben
When his career ended, he walked away with 16 Long Course National Championships, 11 Open National Championships and numerous other championship medals.
Swimming as an NCAA swimmer, he competed for the University of Alabama under ISHOF Honor Coach, Don Gambril, who took him to the NCAA National Championships. There, he won silver in the 200m butterfly and bronze in the 100-meter butterfly.
Jon Sieben after winning gold in the 200-meter butterfly Photo Courtesy: Jon Sieben
Although swimming competitively for Gambril, Laurie Lawrence was always Sieben’s coach while competing at the Olympic Games, under the Australian flag.
More about Jon Sieben:
With Sieben competing in three Olympic Games, it was the first time an Aussie swimmer had done so since Dawn Fraser had participated in three Olympic Games in 1956, 1960 and 1964.
Not only was Sieben an Olympic caliber swimmer, but in 2005 and 2009, he competed for Australia in the Universiade Games in the sport of water polo and in 2009, the team took home gold.
Come join Sieben and this year’s class of 2022 in Ft. Lauderdale. If you cannot join us, consider making a donation.
To make a donation, click here: https://ishof.org/donate/
This year’s International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees include:
International Swimming Hall of Fame 2022 Honorees
Craig Beardsley (USA) – Swimming
Natalie Coughlin (USA) – Swimming
Marilyn Bell (CAN) – Open Water Swimming
Michael Klim (AUS) – Swimming
Jon Sieben (AUS) – Swimming
Daichi Suzuki (JPN)– Swimming
Matthew Mitcham (AUS) – Diving
Ursula Carlile (AUS) – Coach
Peter Huerzeler (SUI) – ISHOF Contributor
Mirko Vicevic (YUG/MON) Water Polo
Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees
Doris Steadman (USA) Masters Swimmer
Dr. Jane Katz (USA) Masters Contributor
Edith Bohm (GER) Masters Swimmer
Olga Kokorina (RUS) Masters Swimmer
Shigehisha Sekikawa (JPN) Masters Swimmer
Birte Hohlstein (GER) Masters Artistic Swimming
Guenther Wolf (GER) Masters Water Polo
The Induction Weekend Schedule
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Official 57th Annual International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner
5:30 pm VIP Reception6:30 –10:00 pm Induction Ceremony & Dinner
HOTEL INFORMATION
Host Hotel: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Upscale retreat with private beach access, two pools, four restaurants, full service spa and oceanside bar. Location of the Saturday evening induction ceremony. ¼ mile south of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
3030 Holiday Drive, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 525-4000
Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $229 per night, BOOK YOUR ROOM HERE
($39 Resort fee – Guests can opt out if not interested in resort amenities)
Additional Hotel Option: Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach
440 Seabreeze Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 524-8733 Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $189 per night
Honoree Ceremony October 15, 2022 Last Day to Book: Friday, September 30, 2022
Brent Rutemiller Announces Retirement As ISHOF CEO and Swimming World Magazine Publisher
by JOHN LOHN – EDITOR-IN-CHIEF15 June 2022
Brent Rutemiller Announces Retirement As ISHOF CEO and Swimming World Magazine Publisher
After five years as the CEO of the International Swimming Hall of Fame and more than 30 years in multiple roles with Swimming World Magazine, most recently as publisher, Brent Rutemiller has announced his retirement. Rutemiller’s decision comes on the heels of a courageous battle with cancer, which is in early remission, and his tenure can only be measured as highly successful.
Rutemiller has served as the CEO of ISHOF since 2017, during which time he guided the organization from financial struggles to profitability. More, Rutemiller’s leadership was the driving force behind the new ISHOF facilities which have been, and will be, constructed. While new outdoor venues have been completed, ISHOF’s new museum buildings are slated to open in 2024, offering the public the opportunity to celebrate the wonderful history of aquatic sports.
Prior to assuming his ISHOF role, Rutemiller occupied several positions with Swimming World, most notably serving as publisher of the magazine and its website starting in 2002.
“Brent’s retirement marks the end of a much needed transitional chapter in ISHOF’s journey and yet another incredible mark for Brent on the world of aquatics,” said Steve Hasty, the Vice Chairman of the ISHOF Board. “We wish him well on his next journey.”
In the days ahead, a deeper look at Rutemiller’s impact will be published on the Swimming World website. For now, though, here is the letter he drafted to his staff announcing his retirement. What better words to run than those of the man who did so much during his career, and whose impact will long be appreciated.
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I want to thank everyone for all of their support over the years. Leading the International Swimming Hall of Fame and Swimming World was a privilege as well as a responsibility that I took very seriously. I believe that to truly win in life, you must first help someone else win. That is what philanthropy and running a non-profit corporation is all about. I think my inner drive to be ethical and credible has rung true through the years.
In 2017, I committed to a five-year plan to lead ISHOF. At the time, ISHOF had just ended its relationship with Fort Lauderdale, Florida and was put on a 30-day month to month lease.
The aquatic center’s grandstand was condemned, leaving the center with very few events. The museum had roof leaks and air conditioning issues. Financially, ISHOF was in disarray after reporting a loss of $153,087 in net assets the year before.
Many of my friends thought I was crazy to take on such a huge challenge to turn ISHOF around.
The first couple of years were tough as we suffered through Covid-19 and a loss of sponsorships and advertisers. The loss of revenue from the museum being shut down and events canceled was unexpected.
However, through it all, I am happy to report that ISHOF is more stable now with a 30-year city lease and a $277,000 profit last year. We have a new aquatic center and the first high diving tower of its kind in the world. Our relationship with Mayor Dean Trantalis and City Manager Chris Lagerbloom is strong. We have the support of the city commissioners, especially Steven Glassman who represents ISHOF’s district and sits on ISHOF’s Board of Directors. It is important to note that a lot of our success with the city came from Laura Voet, Aquatic Complex Manager, who was always there to help us maneuver through city hall.
It is with great pride that I can say that we successfully merged Swimming World Magazine and its multi-media platforms with ISHOF. Combining financials was difficult but the result gave ISHOF a long-needed, powerful world-wide marketing vehicle.
But more importantly, we brought a renewed mission and vision to the aquatic community. Nothing embodies that energy more than the new iconic buildings that are set to come online in 2024. The project is under the leadership of Mario Caprini, developer, financier and ISHOF Board Member.
There were key individuals along the way who made an incredible impact on ISHOF’s resurgence. Laurie Marchwinski was instrumental in running our operations. Without Laurie, we would not have been nearly as successful. She has been with the museum for more than 40 years, starting when she was 17. Marcia Meiners plowed through the financials each month, merging two corporations into one statement. It was an impossible task that many would not have agreed to tackle. Lauren Serowik successfully took on the herculean task of converting all of Swimming World subscribers to ISHOF members and maintained our databases while overseeing our swimshop and sales. Meg Keller Marvin gave me tremendous insight into the vast relationships that ISHOF has with people throughout the world. Alyssa Lovitt reconnected us with the Fort Lauderdale Community – an important relationship that was missing for years. I must recognize all the part-time employees who worked on passion and reduced salaries to digitize, catalog, and pack all ISHOF memorabilia, especially Todd Eller. It is with deep gratitude that I thank Bruce Wigo for staying on to mentor me and remain as our historian. And hats off to Bill Kent, our Board Chairman for believing that nothing is insurmountable.
On the Swimming World side, my relationships go deeper, having been with Swimming World in some capacity since 1985. (I started as an educational cartoon writer for $100 a month). Bob Ingram, long-time Senior Editor since the early 1970s, made me look good as I rose to become the Publisher. Joe Johnson did incredible work as our graphic designer to migrate Swimming World from a print publication into a digital asset allowing us to expand our offering to readers and advertisers. John Lohn, our Editor-In-Chief, and his staff of writers brought credibility to the written word, keeping Swimming World close to its roots as the most credible source of information in aquatics. Kyle Mills, as our Chief Technology Officer and Ashleigh Shay as our News and Advertising Manager, brought us perspectives from the next generation. A big thank you to Steve West for agreeing to become an ISHOF Board member while donating his time as a software engineer to help integrate Swimming World and ISHOF’s digital assets. Steve taught me a lot about the digital landscape over the years, starting with launching SwimInfo.com back in 1997. It was the first website in the world dedicated to aquatic news and eventually morphed into SwimmingWorld.com. Thank you, Steve.
A humble thank you to the ISHOF Board of Directors for supporting me through many uncertain times. I have known Steve Hasty, Aaron Peirsol, Sandra Bucha, Tod Spieker and Dale Neuburger for many years and was proud that they served on my board. I will always value their friendship and advice. All the other board members have earned my respect and I hope that our paths will cross someday soon.
I am very proud of my tenure as CEO of ISHOF. Thank you for allowing me the privilege to lead the International Swimming Hall of Fame and Swimming World. However, it is time for new leadership.
My commitment was for five years and to that I must stay true. I have given my best and it is time for me to give back to my two disabled sons and my wonderful wife, Ellen, who has been by my side, supporting me at every turn. I love the aquatic family of which I have been a part of, at some level, all my life.
I’m sure I will surface again in some body of water, but for now I leave ISHOF and Swimming World in good hands.
Thank you for all your support and remember, if you want to win, first help someone else win!
Sincerely,
Brent Rutemiller
Japanese Swimmer Daichi Suzuki To Be Inducted Into International Swimming Hall of Fame Class of 2022 – Updated
Daichi Suzuki stunned the world when he beat the USA’s David Berkoff at the 1988 Olympic Games in the 100-meter backstroke.
Daichi Suzuki after he beat David Berkoff in the 100-meter backstroke at the 1988 Seoul Olympics Photo Courtesy: Daichi Suzuki
While Hall of Famer, David Berkoff is widely credited with “inventing” swimming backstroke underwater with a dolphin kick, the origin of the technique is far from clear. The first record of swimming in this manner in competition credits Hall of Famer Jesse Vassallo with being the first. Perhaps independently, Daichi Suzuki of Japan developed the skill and, as a 17-year-old, became the first to swim 25 meters underwater at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games. At about the same time, David Berkoff started experimenting with what became known as “the Berkoff Blastoff” in the USA.
Daichi Suzuki at the start position for the 100-meter backstroke during the 1988 Seoul Olympics Photo Courtesy: Daichi Suzuki
Fast forward to the preliminaries of the 1988 Olympic Games, Berkoff and Suzuki went head-to-head, with Berkoff staying five more meters underwater on the first lap than his opponent and winning by over a body length in world record time.
Daichi Suzuki launching into the 100-meter backstroke at the 1988 Seoul Olympics Photo Courtesy: Daichi Suzuki
In the finals, it was a different story. Berkoff surfaced at 40 meters with a half-body lead over Suzuki. Suzuki caught up and out-touched Berkoff for the gold medal, in what was considered the major upset of the Games. Suzuki retired immediately after the Seoul Olympics and has continued to be active at nearly all levels of the sport.
Daichi Suzuki with his gold medal on the podium at the 1988 Olympics Photo Courtesy: Daichi Suzuki
Daichi Suzuki waving to the crowd after receiving his gold medal Photo Courtesy: Daichi Suzuki
More About Daichi Suzuki
Upon retirement, Suzuki became the varsity coach at Juntendo University. He also sat on the board of Japan’s Anti-Doping Agency, as well as serving on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Athlete Committee. He eventually was selected as President of the Japan Swimming Federation, and more recently was named to head Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology.
Daichi Suzuki at the 1988 Seoul Olympics Photo Courtesy: Daichi Suzuki
Come join Suzuki and this year’s class of 2022 in Ft. Lauderdale. If you cannot join us, consider making a donation.
To make a donation, click here: https://ishof.org/donate/
This year’s International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees include:
International Swimming Hall of Fame 2022 Honorees
Craig Beardsley (USA) – Swimming
Natalie Coughlin (USA) – Swimming
Marilyn Bell (CAN) – Open Water Swimming
Michael Klim (AUS) – Swimming
Jon Sieben (AUS) – Swimming
Daichi Suzuki (JPN)– Swimming
Matthew Mitcham (AUS) – Diving
Ursula Carlile (AUS) – Coach
Peter Huerzeler (SUI) – ISHOF Contributor
Mirko Vicevic (YUG/MON) Water Polo
Masters International Swimming Hall of Fame Honorees
Doris Steadman (USA) Masters Swimmer
Dr. Jane Katz (USA) Masters Contributor
Edith Bohm (GER) Masters Swimmer
Olga Kokorina (RUS) Masters Swimmer
Shigehisha Sekikawa (JPN) Masters Swimmer
Birte Hohlstein (GER) Masters Artistic Swimming
Guenther Wolf (GER) Masters Water Polo
The Induction Weekend Schedule
Saturday, October 15, 2022
Official 57th Annual International Swimming Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner
5:30 pm VIP Reception6:30 –10:00 pm Induction Ceremony & Dinner
HOTEL INFORMATION
Host Hotel: Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
Upscale retreat with private beach access, two pools, four restaurants, full service spa and oceanside bar. Location of the Saturday evening induction ceremony. ¼ mile south of the International Swimming Hall of Fame.
3030 Holiday Drive, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 525-4000
Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $229 per night, BOOK YOUR ROOM HERE
($39 Resort fee – Guests can opt out if not interested in resort amenities)
Additional Hotel Option: Courtyard by Marriott Fort Lauderdale Beach
440 Seabreeze Blvd., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 524-8733 Special ISHOF Guest Rate of $189 per night
Honoree Ceremony October 15, 2022 Last Day to Book: Friday, September 30, 2022