Walter Baer, the long-time Sports Director of the Austrian Swimming Federation (OSV), died unexpectedly on March 17th. He was 56.
A native of Vienna, Baer dedicated much of his life to the sport of swimming. He started out as an athlete at a young age and eventually took up coaching, working in Eisenstadt before going on to coach at ASV Vienna and the Südstadt Performance Center. His coaching career spanned 25 years.
In 2018, Baer became the Sports Director of the Austrian Swimming Federation, where he oversaw the organization’s sports operations.
Baer’s colleagues at the Austrian Swimming Federation commented on his impact on the swimming community.
“Walter lived and breathed the sport; we are shocked,” said OSV President Arno Pajek. “Our thoughts are with his family. It’s such a shame that people like him always leave this world too soon.”
OSV Vice President Jann Siefken also paid tribute to Baer, saying, “Walter was the heart and soul of the entire federation and a truly close friend. This loss is unbearable, both personally and professionally.”
At the Austrian Swimming Federation, Baer was a key figure in connecting the aquatic disciplines of pool swimming, open water swimming, diving, synchronized swimming and water polo. His role saw him serve as a link between athletes and the OSV’s leadership.
Baer also sought to highlight the importance of swimming in general outside of the competitive sphere.
In a 2024 interview, Baer said: “This sport is also socially important; it is vital for survival. We need to move away from the idea that a swimming pool has to be run for profit. We should also consider the benefits that swimming offers from a health and social perspective.”
Baer is survived by his wife and daughter.
