How Arizona State Swimming Went From Being Cut in 2008 to Winning a NCAA Team Title in 2024

2024 MEN’S NCAA SWIMMING AND DIVING CHAMPIONSHIPS

In 2008, Arizona State cut the swimming program, but it was saved and maintained by a grassroots fundraising effort by students, coaches, and alumni. In 2015, ASU hired Bob Bowman to revitalize the program. And now, 9 years later, the ASU men have won their first NCAA team title in program history.

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Lobo
7 months ago

I doubt that Bowman will leave ASU. He has a dynasty working for a couple of more years. That is not something that you walk away from. Bowman is probably being paid well enough.

butterybowman
Reply to  Lobo
7 months ago

wow. this aged poorly lol

swimfast
7 months ago

Very odd hate for Bob Bowman in general, but of course he is the reason for this shift. It was ALL him. Congrats to an incredible coach.

Andrew
7 months ago

It’d be really funny if SS did an article about University of Arizona’s downfall since 2008

thezwimmer
7 months ago

Take notes Iowa and Michigan state (among many other schools). You absolutely have the resources to be able to have championship caliber teams if you want to have them!

Tom Lundgaard
7 months ago

This was destiny at its pinnacle of achievement. Hoo Rah to our Moon Shot team and coaches. I had the privilege of being the Co-Captain of our team in 1977-78. I have been dreaming of this day since then. Who said dreams don’t come true. Thanks to everyone, I haven’t stopped crying since yesterday!!!!

Best,

Tom Lundgaard

Swim Fast Swim Pretty
Reply to  Tom Lundgaard
7 months ago

Wholesome.

1978wzlyrah
Reply to  Tom Lundgaard
7 months ago

Who downvotes such
a heartfelt comment??? C’mon, person, be better.

Congratulations ASU!!!!!!

Dorsey Tierney-Walker
7 months ago

Congratulations to the Sun Devil coaches, swimmers, and alumni!

Willswim
7 months ago

Bowman, Kos, Kahrun, Zarkany, Urlando, and R. Smith to Texas (Marchand too, but as a pro). Herbie takes over ASU and keeps all the sprinters.

Texas Swimming
Reply to  Willswim
7 months ago

Why would he want to go to Texas lol. They are washed

Willswim
Reply to  Texas Swimming
7 months ago

$$$

jablo
Reply to  Willswim
7 months ago

bruh what are you on lol? clearly, ASU had enough $$$ to hire Bob Bowman and a more than competent staff.

swimgeek
Reply to  jablo
7 months ago

Sure, ASU had $$$ to hire Bowman. But if Texas backs up the truck and offers $$$$$$, you’re saying it’s impossible he’ll listen?

Khachaturian
7 months ago

ASU was amazing this year. But next year? Hell, even without Leon Marchand? I think they could go for it again. So much improvement amongst guys like Sammon, Kulow, McDonald, and a lot of the ASU guys who weren’t in the spotlight earning points in B finals. Kos and Kharun are only gonna get faster with more experience under their belt. I think y’all know it too, this year was just prep for what they are gonna be able to do next year.

About Coleman Hodges

Coleman Hodges

Coleman started his journey in the water at age 1, and although he actually has no memory of that, something must have stuck. A Missouri native, he joined the Columbia Swim Club at age 9, where he is still remembered for his stylish dragon swim trunks. After giving up on …

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