Ohio State men's swimming head coach Bill Wadley announced Wednesday the hiring of Dave Rollins as an assistant coach for the Buckeyes. Rollins, a nine-time All-American at the University of Arizona (2003-06), joins the program with seven years of coaching experience at all levels of swimming.
"We are pleased to have Dave join the Buckeye swimming family," Wadley said. "His energy and experiences as a national-level athlete make him a great fit for our program."
Rollins comes to Columbus with coaching experience at the club, high school, and collegiate levels. Rollins is a former NCAA champion, nine-time All-American, United States national finalist and Olympic Trials participant.
"The facilities and the national events we host are a good indicator of the quality of the Ohio State program," Rollins said. "More importantly, coach Wadley and others have created an environment which fosters growth as students, athletes and individuals. It's an exciting, dynamic, and supportive team. My family and I are very happy to be a part of it."
Rollins is a graduate of the University of Arizona (2007) with a degree in interdisciplinary studies. While at U. of A., he established four school records and became the fastest American breaststroker in history - a record that stood for six years. He captained the Wildcats his senior year.
Following his time as a competitor, he began coaching at Tucson Ford Dealers Aquatics under Hall of Famer Frank Busch. Rollins worked with multiple Olympic and World Champion gold medalists. Moving to Northern Arizona University in 2007, he served as an assistant coach for the Lumberjacks for three seasons. While in Flagstaff, he also was head coach for Peaks Aquatic Club. In both capacities, he played a major role in impacting the quality and growth of the programs, highlighted by 12 school records at N.A.U. and moving Peaks into the U.S.A. Bronze Medal Club category.
Rollins most recent positions were in Cincinnati, where he was the head coach of the west satellite location for the Marlins and was an assistant with St. Xavier High School. Once again his contributions resulted in dramatic results. The Marlins captured three Ohio Age Group Championships. Rollins also worked with Olympic Trial qualifiers as well as national and junior qualifiers along with national and state record holders. His efforts with the Aquabombers were equally productive, as he was part of two Ohio Championships, while coaching 11 All- Americans. Three of his Cincinnati athletes are now Buckeyes.
A native of Brocton, Mass., he and wife Caroline Keefe Rollins are expecting their first child this fall.
SCHEDULE
ROSTER
NEWS
