Ron O'Brien
Legendary Coach Ron O'Brien Passes Away
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USA Diving is saddened by the loss of legendary coach Ron O’Brien, who passed away Tuesday at the age of 86.
O’Brien was an eight-time Olympic coach (1968-1996) and coached 19 Olympians. His divers won 12 Olympic medals (five gold, three silver and four bronze).
O’Brien also served as a seven-time World Cup coach, a seven-time World Championship coach and a four-time Pan American Games coach. Every gold medal at the 1982 World Championships was won by O’Brien’s divers.
His Olympic medalists include: Jennifer Chandler (1976), Debbie Keplar Wilson (1976), Greg Louganis (1984, 1988), Michelle Mitchell (1984, 1988), Wendy Wyland (1984), Scott Donie (1992) and Mary Ellen Clark (1992, 1996).
On the national scene, O’Brien produced at least one U.S. national champion for 24 straight years (1973-1996), highlighted by the 1986 season when all 12 national titles were awarded to his divers. In all, O’Brien’s divers won 196 gold, 113 silver and 106 bronze medals in Olympic, World Championship, World Cup, Pan American, World University, USA Diving, NCAA and Big Ten competitions.
O’Brien was inducted in the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Hall of Fame in 2019 and into USA Diving’s Rings of Honor in 2016. He was a 14-time recipient of the Mike Peppe Award as USA Diving’s coach of the year. He served as USA Diving’s National Technical Director from 1991-2004 and as High Performance Director from 2004 until his retirement in 2008. He has also been inducted into the Ohio State University Sports Hall of Fame, the International Swimming Hall of Fame, the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame and the Broward County (Fla.) Sports Hall of Fame.
O’Brien leaves behind his wife of over 60 years, Mary Jane, daughter Anne, son Tim, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
“Ron O'Brien was a towering figure in the world of diving, whose passion, dedication, and unparalleled success inspired generations of athletes and coaches. His remarkable achievements, and the way he shaped the careers of so many champions, are a testament to his extraordinary talent and leadership. Ron's impact, however, extended far beyond the pool deck, as he embodied the spirit of excellence and integrity in every aspect of his work. Ron was a great coach and a better human being. The diving community has lost a true legend, and his legacy will continue to inspire for years to come. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.” – Lee Michaud, USA Diving President
International Swimming Hall of Fame tribute
