McKendree Swim and Dive Program Passes 10-Year Mark: A Decade of Success and Impact
The McKendree Swim and Dive program has reached a significant milestone, celebrating its 10th anniversary with remarkable achievements in the realm of athletics. This program, established in the 2016-2017 season, has not only thrived but has also left an indelible mark on the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) and NCAA Division II competition.
A Visionary Hire
The journey began with the strategic hiring of Jimmy Tierney, a seasoned coach with a rich background in NCAA Division I and the Big Ten Conferences. His expertise was pivotal in shaping the program's trajectory. Chuck Brueggemann, the director of athletics, envisioned a bright future, stating, "Tierney is the perfect choice to form the foundation for the McKendree men’s and women’s swimming and diving programs." This hire set the stage for a competitive and impactful era.
GLVC Dominance
In the GLVC conference, the Bearcats have showcased their prowess. With 136 GLVC champions, 39 conference records broken, and 39 Swimmer of the Week awards, they have consistently demonstrated their strength. The program's success is further exemplified by the Swimmer of the Year awards bestowed upon Gregg Lichinsky (2020) and Fabio Dalu (2021). Dalu's achievements extend beyond GLVC, as he became the freshman of the year in 2020, sharing the honor with Vova Gavrysh. Andrea Menard-Cordoba, a standout diver, was named Diver of the Year in 2024, adding to the program's accolades.
Coach Tierney's leadership has been recognized with two GLVC Coaches of the Year awards in 2018 and 2020, solidifying his impact on the team's success. The Bearcats have also been honored with the James R. Spalding Team Sportsmanship award six times in the last decade, showcasing their commitment to excellence beyond the pool.
National Recognition
On the national stage, McKendree has made its mark with an impressive 375 All-Americans, 133 College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA) Scholar All-Americans, 18 national champions, and 15 runners-up. The program's excellence is further evidenced by the six national records broken and the two records still held in the 200 freestyle and 200 butterfly. In five of the past 10 years, the Bearcats have finished in the top four, with a notable third-place finish in the 2023 national championships.
A Star in the Making
Fabio Dalu, a standout swimmer, was named the national swimmer of the year in 2021, solidifying his impact on the program's national recognition. His achievements and those of his teammates have elevated McKendree's reputation in the swimming and diving community.
Conclusion: A Legacy in the Making
As the McKendree Swim and Dive program continues to celebrate its 10th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of strategic hiring, coaching excellence, and a commitment to sportsmanship. With a rich history of achievements, the program has not only met but exceeded expectations, leaving a lasting impact on the GLVC and NCAA Division II competitions. The future holds promise, as the Bearcats continue to strive for excellence, building upon a decade of success and setting new benchmarks for the years to come.
