Courtesy: Westside Community Schools
OMAHA, NE — March 12, 2026— Westside Community Schools proudly opened its new Westside High School Natatorium and Pool, a facility designed to set new standards for high school swimming and diving, recreational swimmers, and the greater Omaha community.
The project was managed by the Westside Foundation and funded primarily through private donations, reflecting strong community support for public education, innovation, wellness, and facilities.
The Westside Natatorium is more than just a pool—it is a destination for excellence in swimming, diving, training, and community engagement. Key features include:
- Pool Technology – Engineered for performance and precision, the pool provides a world-class competition surface, consistent water quality, and long-term structural integrity.
- Championship Environment – With ample deck space, advanced timing systems, and spectator-friendly sightlines, plus state-of-the-art video streaming technology for live viewing anywhere in the world, the facility is designed to host high school, club, and regional competitions.
- Spacious Concourse & Spectator Amenities – A wide, welcoming concourse and modern seating areas provide comfort for visitors while creating a professional atmosphere for large-scale meets. The surrounding exterior glass and the glass wall separating the concourse and grandstands offer expansive views and a bright, open environment.
- Training & Wellness Impact – The facility enhances opportunities for Westside High School student-athletes to develop strength, endurance, and technique while promoting wellness across the district.
- Celebrating Tradition – The natatorium features “college-style” graphics showcasing the rich history and achievements of Westside High School’s swimming and diving program, including honoring legendary coaches Cal Bentz and Doug Krecklow, who shaped generations of athletes and established a legacy of excellence.
The pool dedication featured Olympian Penny Heyns, a two-time Olympic gold medalist from South Africa and holder of 14 individual world records, who was coached collegiately by Westside High School’s own Cal Bentz. Her presence underscores the facility’s connection to elite-level swimming and the school’s lasting impact on the sport.
“This project represents a significant investment in our students and community,” said Mike Lucas, Westside Community Schools Superintendent. “The new natatorium allows us to provide our swimmers and divers with one of the finest facilities in the United States for a public high school, made possible through community support managed by the Westside Foundation.”
The new Natatorium and Pool is part of the Westside Foundation’s Impacting Excellence Campaign, which raised more than $34.2 million to support initiatives in Innovation, College, Career and Life Readiness, Wellness, Medicine, Special Education, Facilities, Entrepreneurship, and more.
About Westside High School Swimming and Diving
Westside High School has a storied tradition of excellence in swimming and diving, shaped by the leadership of legendary coaches Cal Bentz and Doug Krecklow. Together, they amassed decades of coaching experience and an extraordinary record of achievements:
- Team Success: 34 combined Team State Championships and 21 Team Runner-ups (boys and girls)
- Individual Excellence: 165 combined Individual State Champions and 37 Relay Champions
- Athletic & Academic Honors: Over 180 combined All-Americans
- Elite Development: Coach Bentz led University of Nebraska teams to 21 Conference Titles and coached more than 20 Olympians, while Coach Krecklow developed numerous athletes who went on to have successful collegiate careers
- Recognition: Both coaches received numerous local, regional, and national coaching awards and were inducted into multiple Athletic and Swimming Halls of Fame
The program emphasizes athletic performance, teamwork, and character development, preparing student-athletes not only for collegiate competition but also for lifelong success. The new Natatorium celebrates this rich history while providing a championship-caliber facility for current and future generations of swimmers and divers.
About Westside Community Schools
Westside Community Schools is an award-winning public school district in Omaha, Nebraska, serving approximately 6,100 students in Pre-K through 12th grade. Founded in 1947, the district includes one high school, one middle school, and 10 elementary schools. Known for academic excellence and innovation, Westside Community Schools emphasizes community service, college and career readiness, and inclusive learning. The district offers strong support for diverse learners, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, and a deep commitment to equity and belonging for all students.
