Sterling College announced the launch of the men’s and women’s swimming program, beginning the 2019-20 fall season. Additionally, Gary Kempf has been named head coach of the Sterling College swimming program. Kempf currently serves as Sterling’s athletic director and will continue in that role through December 2018. Kempf is a decorated swimming coach with over 30 years of college coaching experience.
“We are so excited to add these swimming programs to Warrior Athletics at Sterling College. We are also pleased to have a coach of Gary’s demonstrated success, character and experience, and who is respected and known nationwide. Gary has done a tremendous job in leading our athletic department and we look forward to his leadership in our new swimming programs,” said Dr. Scott Rich, president.
With only two other swim programs in the KCAC, Sterling College will compete with both local and national schools.
“Swimming is an important sport in the lives of many student-athletes. There are more than 80 high school programs in Kansas, and yet there are just a few collegiate programs in the state. We see this as an opportunity for these young men and women to further their career, competing as Sterling College Warriors,” said Kempf.
Kempf was a longtime coach at Kansas. In 1999, he school newspaper reported that he had driven off 40 student-athletes and 10 assistant coaches in a five-year span with “psychological abuse, inducing unhealthy eating behavior and breaking NCAA training rules.” The claims were disputed by Kempf and other members of the team, according to multiple news sources.
Brenda Brook-Barkhuizen
Thanks Pam ??