Men’s swimming and diving head coach Eddie Reese is wrapping up his final days before his official retirement by doing what he’s been doing for 46 years: guiding Texas athletes to reach their highest potential. The Olympic Swimming Trials kick off in Indianapolis, featuring several Longhorns and Texas Exes vying for spots. Reese, who announced his retirement during the early 2023-24 season, affirmed that the June 15-23 trials mark his last coaching stint before handing over the reins to Bob Bowman. Bowman, recently named head coach, also assumes the role of swimming and diving director. With an impressive track record of national championships, Bowman instills confidence in the Longhorns, fueling their aspirations to make a strong debut in the SEC. Additionally, his commitment to preserving and enhancing Texas’ distinctive coaching culture is reassuring to the team.
Bowman remarked on the shared focus he and Reese have on the process, emphasizing that championship success often stems from the consistent effort put in during routine practices.
Yet, the departure of Reese will leave a void in the team’s culture, with many athletes fondly recalling his motivational wisdom. Junior swimmer Luke Hobson echoed Reese’s emphasis on individual improvement as the primary goal for each season, noting how it inspires dedication and perseverance among the team.
Athletes with aspirations for the Olympics treasure the remaining time they have to benefit from Reese’s guidance. A total of 24 individuals, including current, incoming, and former Longhorns, are set to compete, with 15 from the current roster and five incoming freshmen.
Among the current athletes participating are Spencer Aurnou-Rhees, Ryan Branon, Coby Carrozza, Aleksej Filipovic, Nate Germonprez, Manning Haskal, David Johnston, Rex Maurer, Will Modglin, Chris O’Connor, Ben Sampson, Will Scholtz, Aaron Shackell, and Camden Taylor. Incoming freshmen Landon D’Ariano, Garrett Gould, Jeremy Kelly, Cooper Lucas, and Kyle Peck will make their debut at the trials before joining the team in the fall under Bowman’s guidance.
Additionally, four Texas Exes—Carson Foster, Jake Foster, Drew Kibler, and Will Licon—will be competing. Carson and Jake Foster, former Longhorns, have moved on to the next stage of their careers after swimming for Texas last season.
Despite Reese’s impending retirement, his influence leaves the Longhorns optimistic about their Olympic prospects. The trials’ morning preliminaries commence daily at 10 a.m. CT, followed by finals at 6:45 p.m.