As reported by Swimming World on July 7, The American Swimming Coaches Association (ASCA) is proud and excited to announce the next era of leadership in the sport of swimming in the naming of its fifth CEO in the 64-year history of the organization. Effective January 1, 2020, Steve Roush will succeed John Leonard who has led the association for the last 35 years.
Under Coach Leonard’s leadership, the ASCA has grown from “a one person (full-time) operation” into a staff of more than ten full and part-time employees that serve what is now one of the largest and most influential coach’s associations of any type, in the world. During Leonard’s tenure, the voluntary membership has increased from less than 1000 members to over 11,000 domestic and international coaches.
Roush will be responsible to serve athletes through coaches by preserving and expanding ASCA programs that Leonard has developed in education, leadership, SwimAmerica (learn-to-swim) and the cooperative efforts of swim coaches in America and around the world.
Search Committee Chair Coach Mark Schubert said, “John Leonard is one of the most important people in competitive swimming. His fight for clean sport has had many victories. I’m pleased that John will remain employed on a part-time basis and assist Steve Roush in the service of coaches and the sport.”
“With John continuing to serve the ASCA and the sport on a part-time basis, and the broadening of senior leadership, the ASCA is poised to make an even greater impact in education and leadership in the years and decades to come,” says ASCA Board President Coach Heidary. “The global swimming community will never fully understand the depth of dedication to coach education and the unrelenting pursuit of leadership and integrity in the sport that John Leonard has provided. Please join us in welcoming Steve Roush and offering a heartfelt thank you to John Leonard.”
Steve Roush brings with him a vision for expanding the ASCA in its service and support of coaches. Heidary said, “Steve Roush brings unparalleled experience at the highest levels of the sport, as well as a passion for the role of the coach and the development of athletes at all levels.”
— The above press release was posted by Swimming World in conjunction with ASCA. For press releases and advertising inquiries please contact Advertising@SwimmingWorld.com.