Fall semester brings many firsts; first day of class, first day with new roommates, first dates and, for the BYU swim team, it will be their first season with a new coach in nearly 40 years.
After his 37 year career in BYU swimming, Tim Powers announced last January he would not return this season as head coach. After securing 18 conference titles for the Cougars, among many other accolades, Powers decided to do something he always encouraged his swimmers to do: Serve a mission.
Powers and his wife were called to serve in London, England in May where they are currently serving.
Former assistant coach John Brooks, who has been with the Cougars since 2008, was named the new head coach.
“We are pleased to announce John as the new BYU head swimming coach,” Athletic Director Tom Holmoe, said in a press release. “He is passionate about swimming and his enthusiasm is contagious. John has been a tireless recruiter and enjoys the respect of our athletes and coaches. We look forward to have him lead our swimming program.”
Although he may be a new head coach, he is no rookie. Brooks inherits the job with an impressive resume.
Before his years at BYU, he assisted at the Universtity of Utah, helping the women’s team win the Mountain West Conference season and championship in 2006. He also assisted in sending four Ute swimmers to the NCAA championship the same year.
The following year Brooks became an assistant coach at UNLV, where they won the conference title both years he was there. Brooks sent three UNLV swimmers to the Olympics and seven to qualify for the NCAA championship.
“It’s been an honor working with Coach Powers and the staff for the past four years,” Brooks said in a press release. “I’m excited for the opportunity to continue the legacy of BYU’s great coaches. This university has so much to offer and I look forward to helping our student-athletes be successful in the pool and in the classroom.”
The BYU swimming and diving team’s annual Blue vs. White meet will be held Sep. 29 at 9 a.m. in the Richards Building where swimmers will race to determine who will qualify for Coach Brooks’ 2012-2013 traveling team.
