McKendree's Swim and Dive Program: A Decade of Success and a Bright Future
The McKendree Swim and Dive Program has reached a significant milestone, celebrating its 10th anniversary with remarkable achievements. This program, established in the 2016-2017 season, has become a powerhouse in the world of swimming and diving, thanks to the visionary leadership of Coach Jimmy Tierney. With a rich history and a bright future, McKendree is making waves in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC) and NCAA Division II competitions.
A Visionary Leader
The story begins with Chuck Brueggemann, the former director of athletics, who recognized the potential of building a competitive swim and dive program. He hired Jimmy Tierney, a seasoned coach with a background in NCAA Division I and the Big Ten Conferences, to lead the charge. Brueggemann's faith in Tierney was well-placed, as the coach's expertise and passion laid the foundation for McKendree's success.
"Tierney is the perfect choice to form the foundation for the McKendree men’s and women’s swimming and diving programs," Brueggemann said. "I believe McKendree will have an immediate impact in Great Lakes Valley Conference and NCAA Division II competition." And impact they have had, with a string of impressive achievements.
GLVC Dominance
In the GLVC conference, McKendree has been a force to be reckoned with. The Bearcats have produced 136 GLVC champions, broken 39 conference records, and earned 39 Swimmer of the Week awards. The program's success is further highlighted by two Swimmer of the Year awards, given to Gregg Lichinsky in 2020 and Fabio Dalu in 2021. Dalu, in particular, stands out as a dual GLVC and NCAA Division II sensation, winning the GLVC Freshman of the Year award in 2020 and later becoming the national swimmer of the year in 2021.
Andrea Menard-Cordoba, the only diver of the year, added to the program's accolades in 2024. Coach Tierney's leadership has been recognized with two GLVC Coaches of the Year awards in 2018 and 2020, and the team's commitment to sportsmanship is evident through six James R. Spalding Team Sportsmanship awards in the last decade.
National Recognition
McKendree's success extends beyond the GLVC, with the team earning national recognition. With 375 All-Americans, 133 CSCAA Scholar All-Americans, 18 national champions, and 15 runners-up, the Bearcats have left their mark on the NCAA Division II scene. The program has broken six national records, including two that still stand today in the 200 freestyle and 200 butterfly.
In the past five years, McKendree has consistently finished in the top four at the national championships, with a best finish of third place in 2023. This level of success is a testament to the program's depth and talent, and it has undoubtedly raised the profile of McKendree's swim and dive team on the national stage.
A Bright Future
As McKendree celebrates its 10th anniversary, the future looks bright. With a strong foundation, a passionate coach, and a talented team, the program is poised to continue its success and make an even greater impact in the years to come. The achievements of the past decade serve as a launching pad for future glory, and the Bearcats are ready to take on the challenges that lie ahead.
In my opinion, McKendree's Swim and Dive Program is a shining example of what can be achieved with a dedicated leader and a committed team. The program's success is not just a testament to its athletes' abilities but also to the vision and hard work of those who built it. As the program continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly inspire and motivate future generations of swimmers and divers, leaving a lasting legacy at McKendree.
What makes this story particularly fascinating is the rapid rise of McKendree's swim and dive program. In just a decade, they have gone from a new program to a national contender, challenging the dominance of more established teams. This is a testament to the power of strategic hiring and the impact a single coach can have on a program's trajectory. It raises a deeper question: How can institutions like McKendree continue to build and sustain successful athletic programs in the face of increasing competition and resource constraints?
