A Champion’s Mentality

Published on November 08, 2023

Brent Rutemiller, ’78

Whether as a competitive athlete, nationally prominent swimming coach and program builder, magazine executive, or International Swimming Hall of Fame CEO, Brent Rutemiller, ’78, has left an indelible mark on the sport he loves.

As a coach and executive, Rutemiller “always wanted those around me to shine brighter than me. My basic philosophy is that if you want to win, first help someone else win.”

He’s carrying that same ideal into the newest fight of his life, against plasma-cell leukemia. He hopes that his own ordeal illuminates a path forward in the ongoing fight against cancer and inspires others facing similar difficulties.

In March 2023, the National Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association (NISCA) honored Rutemiller with its prestigious Collegiate Award, citing his varied contributions to the sport, some of which include serving as the national team coach for United States Swimming, being selected by his peers as one of the 30 Most Influential People in the sport over the past 30 years, and many other accomplishments and recognitions.