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February 14, 2026 - Our Hearts Break As Pacific Swimming Mourns A Legend

Our Hearts Break As Pacific Swimming Mourns A Legend

The last week found members of the swim community shocked and saddened to learn the Hall of Fame Coach Don Swartz, passed away unexpectedly while vacationing in Cosa Rica in early February. Tributes from around the globe have poured in from all the many swimmers and colleagues, sharing wonderful stories of Coach Swartz and his motivating effect on them. A mentor and friend, Coach Swartz will be deeply missed by the swim community and the many families he influenced through the years.

Please see below for so many posts detailing what a special coach we had in Don Swartz. Our thoughts are with all who are hurting during this time.

Family members and close friends are handling arrangements; North Bay Aquatics said more information will follow as the family makes plans.

https://www.northbayaquatics.org/clubs/6029/announcements/2383404-Don-Swartz-Coach-Mentor-and-Friend

https://www.threads.com/@vernglenn/post/DUbglozkr6P/shock-has-hit-the-swim-community-at-the-passing-of-hall-of-fame-north-bay-aquati

https://www.swimspam.com/p/quantum-leaps-in-swimming-remembering-hall-of-fame-coach-don-swartz

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/david-marsh-658b3219_episode-229-don-swartz-on-coaching-innovating-activity-7425638013793366017-FwBb/

https://www.surfradiofal.co.uk/california-based-hall-of-fame-swimming-coach-don-swartz-passes-away-while-vacationing-in-costa-rica/

https://www.swimmingworldmagazine.com/news/passages-north-bay-aquatics-mourns-death-of-coach-don-swartz

https://swimmingcoach.org/page/HOF_donswartz