Feb. 28, 2005
IOWA CITY – Former Iowa all-American swimmer Marc Long has been named head coach of the Iowa swimming and diving program. His appointment as head coach of the men’s and women’s programs is effective immediately. The announcement was made today by Iowa Athletics Director Robert Bowlsby.
Long, a six-time all-American and two-time Big Ten champion, has been in charge of the women’s program for the past year and has served as interim men’s coach since December.
“I’m extremely excited about the opportunity that’s been given to me,” said Long. “I look forward to leading the Iowa swimming and diving program back to a place of prominence and prestige in the Big Ten and in the NCAA. There’s a lot to be proud of in Iowa’s swimming history and I hope to add to the list of Hawkeye swimming & diving accomplishments.”
As a member of Iowa’s men’s team, Long was a team co-captain his senior year (1989). He also lettered in 1987 and 1988. He was a member of the 1987 United States national champion 400-meter freestyle relay team and participated in the 1988 Olympic trials.
“We are excited to have Marc assume the duties and responsibilities of this leadership role for our swimming and diving program,” said Bowlsby. “He has a long-standing tradition with both of our swimming and diving programs as a former Big Ten champion, an NCAA finalist and as an assistant coach with both programs.
“Marc Long understands the challenges of competing in the Big Ten Conference and knows what it will take to move our program forward. It is a big challenge and I am very confident that Marc is up to the task.”
Long, a native of Cedar Falls, earned his degree from Iowa in 1991. He and his wife Beth have a son, Ethan.