No coach in collegiate history has won more NCAA championships the the University of Texas’ Eddie Reese, who announced on Monday that he will retire following this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo. Aside from leading the Longhorns to 15 national titles and 12 runnerup finishes, Reese has been a multi-time Olympic coach for the United States and has molded the careers of countless stars in the sport.
But when his athletes and fellow coaches talk about Reese, the conversation doesn’t focus on his achievements. Rather, they talk about what Reese has meant as a mentor, father figure and someone who genuinely cares about the well-being of others. Here is a photo gallery of Reese, whose presence in the sport will undoubtedly be missed when he officially walks away, but will not be forgotten.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
Attention to detail has long been a standout trait of Eddie Reese, who seemingly knows every little thing unfolding on the deck.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
Comforting his swimmers when they have needed support is a hallmark of Eddie Reese.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
Ask any of his former swimmers and they’ll mention how Eddie thinks his jokes are some of the best out there.
Photo Courtesy: Andy Ringgold / Aringo Photos
In the below picture with Georgia coach Jack Bauerle, Eddie Reese shares a laugh with one of the many fellow coaches who admire his contributions to the sport.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
Eddie Reese has taken 15 title-winning celebratory plunges into the water at the NCAA Championships.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
For years, Eddie Reese’s right-hand man was Kris Kubik.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
Eddie Reese is synonymous with Burnt Orange.
Photo Courtesy: Taylor Brien
In this photo below, the Hall of Fame coach talks with one of his pupils, six-time Olympic medalist Brendan Hansen.
Photo Courtesy: Andy Ringgold/Aringo Photos