WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – A coaching career well-crafted that impacted the lives of hundreds of Boilermakers. We should all be so lucky. Purdue Swimming & Diving's Dan Ross has lived that life, caring for his student-athletes and influencing their early-adulthood years in ways that live on long after they transition into alumni.
It's the impact on the lives of others – including those in the coaching community, both locally and nationwide – where a coach really builds his legacy. After more than 40 years of coaching and sharing life lessons at his alma mater, Ross has a lot to be proud of as his distinguished run as head coach comes to a close at the end of June.
Ross has been the head coach of the Boilermakers since the 1985-86 school year, a remarkable 38-year tenure that spanned Purdue Swimming & Diving's Lambert Pool and Morgan J. Burke Aquatic Center eras. Originally arriving on campus in the fall of 1977 as a freshman from South Carolina, he also served as an assistant coach from 1981-82 to 1984-85 and helped design the Burke Aquatic Center.
"It has been the privilege of my life to coach this team," Ross says. "I loved every swimmer that I had the honor of coaching here at Purdue – from Lambert Pool or the original outdoor pool at the Co-Rec to the last 20 years at an unbelievable facility that is the Morgan J. Burke Aquatic Center. I told the current team, 'I love each and every one of you unconditionally and that will never go away.' This was a difficult decision, but my family helped me confirm what I knew in my heart – that it was time. Purdue Swimming & Diving is in amazing hands because of the people within the program that have made my final season a very special one."
Over three dozen classes of student-athletes at the pool have benefited from Ross' wisdom, life lessons and kindheartedness. He has impacted the lives of thousands of Boilermakers when accounting for the women's team at the aquatic center, with the two programs together representing the full Purdue Swimming & Diving family.
When Purdue Athletics offered program alumni, current Boilermakers and colleagues around the swimming & diving community the opportunity to share their memories and words of the thanks for Coach Ross, the tributes steadily rolled in throughout the month of April. This is an opportunity to read all the submissions honoring a loyal, dedicated, beloved and impactful Boilermaker – the second-longest tenured head coach in the history of Purdue Athletics, Dan Ross. PURDUE ALUMNI – MEN'S TEAM John Wakefield (1997-2001)
Dan Ross was the reason I went to Purdue. I think Dan is the reason all of us went to Purdue. Dan was exactly the type of coach that every kid who ever swam for Purdue needed. His patient, relaxed, and encouraging coaching style made the deck an upbeat and hopeful place. I, and nearly everyone who swam for him, look back at those four years as among the best and happiest of our lives. My class was the last to swim all four years in the Lambert Fieldhouse pool. While the pool was only six lanes and smaller than most high schools, somehow Dan's affable and inspiring nature made it a home that I dearly loved – although I still have scars from accidental collisions in the narrow lanes.
Almost everyone who ever swam for Dan Ross ended up as decent, fun, and reasonable men. People who graduated as Purdue Swimmers always did so as lifelong friends. I believe that is solely attributed to the leadership of Dan Ross in that he is, fundamentally, a good man. Kids from all corners of the globe and of all backgrounds were treated to the daily dose of Dan simply being himself – a decent, honorable, and sometimes hilarious man on the pool deck. We couldn't help but follow his example. Even to this day when I talk to my kids and want to say something encouraging, I often end it with Dan Ross' voice ("Chop, Chop, Suey, Suey, Moo Goo Gai Pan").
Dan, thank you for being there exactly when I needed you, and when all of us needed you. I am stunned at how fortunate I was to have been one of your swimmers and I am truly grateful for everything you have done for me. Congratulations on a well-earned retirement and on a job magnificently done!
Greg Jablonski (1985-89, Graduate Assistant Coach in 1990-91)
I was a part of Dan's first official recruiting class in 1985. It was an opportunity that would shape the rest of my life. I met my wife at Purdue and count my Boilermaker teammates as some of my best friends to this day. Dan taught us to be men and leaders, be accountable for our actions and treat people the way you want to be treated.
My memories of Dan are numerous, but here are a couple of highlights: our fourth-place finish at Big Tens in 1988 and his first Big Ten Coach of the year Award; training in the dungeon that was Lambert Pool; summers in Madison, Wisconsin, training with Dan and his coaching mentor Jack Pettinger; trading text messages before championship meets all the way up to this past year... the list goes on.
His selflessness, care and generosity are on display as he goes home to be with his mom in her later years. That says it all. Dan, your impact on my life and the lives of Mirka and our girls is immeasurable. We wish you, Sally and your boys all the best in the next chapter of your life.
Joe Gerzema (1988-92)
Trying to think of the perfect words as a tribute to Dan Ross led me back to the text I sent Dan in March minutes after his announcement. Love you, Danny! We all do!!!
March 7, 2023
I knew it was coming...my coach, my inspiration, my mentor, my big brother and the guy that allowed me to bleed gold and black. The guy that looked me in the eye on a Friday afternoon in Mackey Arena in April of '88 and told me I could be a member of his team.
The guy who I know had the gut-wrenching time telling me I wasn't on the Big Ten team in February of '90. The guy who left me the most incredible voicemail message the day before my wedding. The guy that gave me a hug I'll never forget at the reunion just a couple years ago.
To the guy who I watched coach his swimmers to their personal perfection a couple weeks ago at Big Tens – man, I'm so blessed to have been there. To the guy whose story about scoring that one point at Big Tens in the mile in 1981, and what that meant to him. Always, I mean always, stays with me.
You set the foundation. You built the program. You established the family. You made us burst with pride when we walked across campus in our parkas. That's you, Danny. I'm excited for you. Go rock the next phase of your life. This, what you have built, will always be here for years for you to beam with pride. So few have ever done this at not only our school, but our conference & the entire country.
P2S&D forever! Love you, Coach!
Kevin Scott (1988-92)
What stands out to me when I think of Dan Ross, and the pleasure it was to swim for him at Purdue, is his passion. Anyone spending any reasonable amount of time around Dan knows that he is extremely passionate about all that he loves: Sally, his boys (Eric, Matt & Andy), his family, his faith, his swimmers, the sport of swimming, golf, cats, hot sauce, cooking and eating, ketchup on a burger, and all things Purdue. One of the many things I am thankful to have learned from coach Dan Ross, not just from his words, but even more from his example, was to live life with passion – enthusiastically enjoying what you love. Thank you coach Dan Ross. Congratulations on an incredible career, and thank you for the opportunity to swim for you at Purdue!
Mike Zientek (1990-94)
In 1989, I reached out to Dan as a swimmer that did not know much about Purdue Swimming and only the reputation of the school. Out of all the schools I looked at, even at this early stage of Dan's career, you could see how much Dan loved his school and his team. He also embraced Lambert Pool for all its shortcomings including the occasional tile marks on the foreheads of our diver brethren.
Dan taught me probably more about what is important in life, than about swimming. That is saying a lot, because he pushed us hard, and taught us much about being winners in the pool and even more about being winners in life. He taught us about the respect we need to show for our teammates, and the lessons of marriage and having children.
I think no one will ever forget the day we walked into practice in the early hours of the morning, when Dan sat the full men's team down on the tile benches of Lambert and talked about the pride and reverence he had for Sally in the birth of their newborn child. It stuck with me through my marriage, the birth of our own children and even today almost 30 years later.
This is just one lesson of many that Dan provided to all of us beyond the pool, usually with some amazing quotes that I am sure will be well documented throughout these tributes. It is funny to think that the swimming, and how it formed all of us, was far less impactful than the lessons of life and the love of Purdue that Dan gave us. I am truly grateful for all that Dan provided to us and still does today to all of generations of student-athletes. Hail Purdue and go Boilers!
Matt Martin (1997-2001)
Going way back to 1996, Dan came to Mission Viejo. He was looking at several recruits, but we instantly bonded. He saw potential in a kid who was 5-foot-3 as a high school junior. Dan always recruited the entire young man, not just their swimming times. When I made the choice for Purdue, I simply told my surprised Southern California family: "It just feels like family."
Dan was more than a swim coach, he was the leader of men. He always preached balance in life. My time in West Lafayette was some of the best of my life. Each scar on my hands from training in Lambert Pool is a badge of honor – all alumni who trained in that pool know the sting of cracking hands passing each other. I am immensely proud of my athletic career, but it goes far beyond that. I have lifelong friends that remain close to this day. I met my beautiful wife and now have a great family with two (hopefully future Boiler) kiddos. His philosophy on "STUDENT-athlete" has blossomed into a rewarding career in medicine.
The impact he's had on me and countless others cannot be overstated. One of life's goals is to leave this earth better than you found it. Dan, your dedication to building young men is incredible. Your teachings live on in each of your former athletes. From the bottom of my heart, congratulations on an amazing career.
Joe Sheehan (1989-94)
Congrats on the retirement. Thanks for not only being a great coach but a great role model to so many young men that have gone through the program. Best Wishes. GO BOILERS!!!
As Dan always stated, to be truly happy during your four years at Purdue, you need to have a balance of school, swimming and social life. Without the balance, one isn't truly going to be successful or happy. However, there is only one time a year that Dan did ask for the balance to become unbalanced, which was Big Ten Championships week. He wanted everyone to solely focus on swimming.
Well, back in February 1990 a week or so before Big Tens, I wasn't feeling confident going into it so I showed up at Dan's office at Mackey to talk to him about how the rest was going, etc. Well, he proceeded to talk about "The making of a cheeseburger" and how that relates to getting ready for the Big Ten Championships. He noted, one can have all the talent in the world – which he called the best burger meat; work the hardest day in and day out – which he considered that the bun, cheese, tomato and lettuce; but unless you have the confidence one will fail. He compared that to not adding the ketchup to the cheeseburger. He wanted me to truly just focus on "adding the ketchup" over the next week or so as this was the only time of year he'd ask for us to truly just focus on swimming. I sat there throughout this analogy just nodding my head kind of letting him go on and on about the cheeseburger and ketchup. Well after our discussion I headed to practice thinking that was the end of that analogy.
Little did I know Dan had kept that thought about the cheeseburger/ketchup analogy in his head. As we all sat getting ready to jump in the pool for warmup at the shallow end, Dan started talking about the cheeseburger/ketchup analogy and how we all needed to "add the ketchup to the cheeseburger" from now until Big Tens was over. Well, the funniest part of all of this is as Dan was going on and on, he was walking around the pool such that he was still talking while he was near the diving boards. We all looked at each other like, are we supposed to follow him, or do we just let him keep going on like John Belushi in in Animal House – "was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?" Well after a few more minutes Dan did stop to let us get rolling on the warmup.
Some of us swam well at Big Tens while others were a little off. But regardless of our performance, probably only a handful of us can remember any time we swam there. However, I can undoubtedly tell you all of us still remember to this day the Big Ten Championships shirts the captains had made up!
Thanks for the memories Dan. You were always more than just a coach to so many young men and women that came through this program. You were a role model of how one should conduct themselves on a daily basis.
Gui Rego (1999-2003)
Dan, coming to the U.S. and swimming with you has changed the trajectory of my life in such a positive way. I can only imagine how many lives were impacted by your leadership, sense of justice and genuine friendship. I wish you, Sally and the family a great next chapter. Hopefully you make a trip to San Diego and we can have a great meal together. Love and gratitude.
Louis Paul (2001-05)
In 2001 I wrote a generic email to a number of swim coaches in the U.S. from Sydney, Australia. Dan was the only coach to respond. I spoke to him once on the phone and that's all it took for me to want to be coached by Dan. I left a Sydney summer for Dan to pick me up in an Indiana winter. We drove up I-65 in the dark. He didn't say much but I knew in my heart he was going to look out for me no matter what.
I spent 4 ½ years swimming faster than I ever thought possible with Dan. But more than that, I keep coming back to the life lessons he instilled in me. Balance in all things, work hard and good things will come, do your damn school work!!!
He will always be my best coach, swimming or otherwise. A true mentor. Dan, I hope you thoroughly enjoy your most well-deserved retirement. Kind regards.
Batuhan Hakan (2017-22)
Coming from a different country, leaving your families and friends, is something that you cannot know without experiencing it. Dan became my big brother/dad in the U.S. He helped me tremendously with his helping/caring/loving/great personality. The culture he created made me feel like a team/family member rather than a stranger. But his biggest impact on me was to give me many perspectives of interpreting things. The "worry about things that you can change" phrase helped me a lot when I had my downs. Sometimes we worry too much about the stuff we don't even have any control over and that frustrates us even more. There is no way to tell every impact Dan has had and still has on my life. Thank you!
Marat Amaltdinov (2014-18)
One of the things that makes Dan so special is that he cares about all his athletes – not just as athletes, but as individuals first. He is always there to help and give invaluable advice. Dan is a great mentor and has had one of the biggest impacts on my life. Thank you, Dan, and congratulations on a remarkable career!
Sven M. Soedel (1980-84)
I was fortunate enough to be both a teammate with Dan and also have him as a coach! I was a freshman when Dan was a senior on the team at Lambert Pool and had Dan as an assistant coach to Doc Kahms my last couple years. I have too many great stories of the team adventures we all had. So many good times. It was either Dan or Joe Baer driving one of the Purdue vans that rear ended the other van on the Christmas break trip to South Texas. Remember the infamous bus trip and subsequent disastrous meet at Clemson?
Dan and Joe's campus apartment annual party was legendary way back then. I've had the pleasure of seeing Dan over relatively recent years at NCAA Championship meets and USA Swimming senior national events when my son Nick was swimming at the University of Utah (2011-15). I also enjoyed seeing Dan and Sally at the Pigskin Classic at the LA Coliseum where USC squeaked out a win over us with Drew Brees. Everyone and the swimming community will sorely miss Dan! Congratulations on your retirement!
Dave Griscom (1980-84)
Great memories of Dan as a friend, teammate and coach. I was fortunate to be a teammate at Purdue and my senior year he became my coach. Interesting times as Doc Kahms was my coach for three great years and then transitioned to Dan. Particular memories were rooming with Dan, Joe Baer and Ken Karl during winter training in Mercedes, Texas. Another was my freshman year ridesharing from New Jersey with Dan and Joe – somehow the freshman became the primary driver for the 10-hour trip back to Purdue.
Congrats Dan on your retirement and your awesome career. What've you done to grow and develop Purdue Swimming has impacted so many! All the best to you and Sally.
Danny Tucker (2010-14)
Dan pulled me into his office before my senior year and told me that he sees himself as more of my manager than my coach. I was in sprint group. And he continued to tell me that he was going to do everything he could to facilitate my success.
The first week of practice you would include "etiquette talks" in the practice. And etiquette was spelled different every day.
When I was put on standby for a flight home, you smiled and reminded me to be patient and polite. After following your advice, the crew gave me a first-class seat home.
Most importantly, when I was having a rough time my first semester, you were a constant force of positivity. You were forgiving when I wasn't the best Boilermaker I could be.
Dan, you were not just my manager, you were my coach. You coached all of us on how to be decent human beings. How to navigate the world as an adult when we no longer get free chocolate milk. How to be someone that people want to be around. Thank you for everything.
Tad Sayce (1999-2003)
I was planning on going to Arizona State. My club coach, Mike Chasson, had just taken over the team there. During my recruiting visit, Mike told me that I couldn't make a final decision before taking a trip to Purdue. I remember thinking, "what the heck is Purdue?" Fast forward a few weeks and Dan Ross was sitting in my parents' living room in New Hampshire. I had just returned home from my Purdue recruiting trip and had missed meeting Dan on campus because he was traveling for a meet. Indiana was a long way from home, but after that short home visit, Dan had easily won my parents' trust. I was only thinking about my swimming (maybe a little academics), but my parents were thinking about how the next four years would influence the type of person I became.
Especially now as a parent myself, I am grateful for how grounded Dan was as a coach – always striving to keep our student-athlete life balanced and in perspective of the bigger life picture. He required that we work hard and be competitive, but he also allowed and enabled us to have fun.
I remember being super nervous to deliver a speech at the dedication of the new pool in 2001. Sitting next to Dan's calm presence made it doable. His delivery was always so clear and concise. I found confidence in myself by seeking to emulate his delivery. I still do today.
Another impactful memory was when Dan talked to me about becoming team captain. He said simply, "You just have to do one thing: Stay true to yourself and don't change who you are."
I also recall Dan reminding us to:
-- "Concern yourself only with what you can control."
-- "Stay the course, do the work, and adhere to the plan."
-- "Look 'em in the eyes when shaking hands."
-- "If you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all."
Dan, thank you for welcoming me into the Purdue family, guiding me and my teammates, and fostering such an amazing collegiate experience. I am forever grateful. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement. Hail Purdue!
Fritz Schumann (1975-79)
Dan Ross came to Lane 1 at Lambert Pool in the fall of '77 and we trained together. I'm still scarred by being washed into the gutters by the likes of Jack Mossberg and others. But nonetheless we made a good go of it; I really enjoyed and appreciated sharing the grind of training with Dan. After a couple of years with swimming roommates (Bob Remaly) at Wiley Hall, I had moved to the Phi Delt house with fellow swimmers Ron Kurz and Bill Lewis. I really enjoyed our training group at Lambert and my time with the team.
After graduation we sort of switched places as I moved east with the DuPont Company to Dan's home territory and Dan stayed in Boilermaker territory. It's been great through the years knowing that "I know the coach" at my alma mater and Dan has done a great job leading Boilermaker Swimming! I enjoyed dropping by the pool in recent years to chat when I visited campus while my daughter was at Purdue ('20 PharmD), and going to the awesome new Boilermaker Aquatic Center. Congrats Dan! I'm certain you'll enjoy retirement!
Jeremy Zeid (1995-99)
From the moment I arrived on campus for my unofficial recruiting trip in the spring of 1994, I had a very strong sense that Purdue is where I wanted to attend college and where I wanted to continue my swimming carrier. Meeting Dan Ross immediately solidified that feeling. I was lucky enough to swim for Purdue University under Dan's coaching. Dan was integral to my experience at Purdue and absolutely responsible for helping shape me into the person that I am today.
His philosophy on life, swimming, the "equilateral triangle" and balance has carried through in many aspects of my life still to this day. Dan's passion for swimming, his passion for Purdue University and his genuine care/attention for the individual human being you are is so deep and so strong. It fills my heart to know that hundreds of Purdue Swimming alumni were also able to experience who Dan is and to have experienced the incredible influence he has had on their lives. The memories are too many to recount here, but they live on...BOILER UP! Congrats Dan!
John Saczawa (1981-85)
Dan and I met in the late summer of 1981. Early-season training at the Co-Rec "lake pool" and my first days into college. The 1981-82 freshman class was/is a fantastic group of swimmers and friends. Dan was a graduate assistant to coach Doc Kahms. We loved Dan right from the jump; he was a highly visible and on-deck presence right away. I'm sure he barely got paid if at all! Dan, Joe Bear and Bob Norris were all both the best and the worst thing for us newbies!
By the time we "upgraded" from the Co-Rec to Lambert and the oil paintings staring over us – Coach Dan was our biggest presence and cheerleader. He understood those colds walks to a.m. practices and was always there getting us going. Late nights too – I remember low ceilings, great album collections and a few beers! After that first year, I think Coach Dan figured he better do a little separation of "church and state."
I got to see and be around Dan for the bookends of his coaching career. Right when he started and then as he wraps up my daughter (Kate, 2020-Present) has been on and around the swim team. A few swim camps in between.
With all his success and tenure as a first class Big Ten coach and stellar representative of our Purdue, the most important qualities have never wavered and are infinitely present. Dan cares about people and their wellbeing first and foremost. Solid as a rock – always, always there for you. There to stand beside you as you rise, there to catch you as you fall. He was my "dad" on campus and still there to be my daughter's "grandpa" when she arrived. Dan you mean so much to me and my family. We wish you, Sally, and your family a remarkably earned lazy days filled with love, fun, rest and the building of even further great memories and adventures.
Kyle Jackson (2000-04)
I joined the program in 2000. Dan's history with Purdue played a big part in why I wanted to join. Dan taught me so many lessons, which I continue to use to this day. I will always remember the day I was ready to share with him that I was gay and that I was terrified that I would lose everyone close to me in my life after telling them. His empathy and the direction he gave me in that conversation gave me confidence to finally open up to others. I am so lucky that Dan allowed me to swim for him at Purdue as it changed my life.
Ryan Dafforn (2007-11)
Thank you, Dan, for giving me and countless others the opportunity to swim at Purdue and be Boilermakers. A world-class coach and person who taught us so much more than about swimming; I'll always be most appreciative for you and the inclusive environment you created at the pool and on our teams. Being a Purdue swimmer will forever be one of my proudest accomplishments and I have Dan to thank for providing me that opportunity. Congratulations on a very much-deserved retirement.
Norman Schultz (1984-88)
Having swam under Coach Dan during his early years as head coach, it's no surprise that he is where he is today. Character-minded, technical approach and motivating – he had a way of bringing us all together, creating an environment of camaraderie. Memories of my time at Purdue: daily pool time in Lambert, Hawaii training trips, the season of three-hour Sunday morning workouts, summer in Madison, indicator sets. The entire experience was challenging and fun. Use failure as a life lesson, one interval at a time, stay late be great. Purdue Pride in Swimming (P2S)! Banzai!
Congratulations on your outstanding career!
Donovan Crowley (1998-2002)
In 1998, I made the decision to attend Purdue University, largely due to the influence of Dan Ross. Having visited other universities during the recruitment process, I was convinced that Dan was the coach who would not only support my swimming goals, but also prioritize my academic needs. As those reading this likely know, he lived up to that expectation and more. His approach was balanced – he provided guidance that extended beyond athletics, encompassing personal growth and academic excellence. Dan's leadership was based on setting an example, which is something I have always found important in my own life. The team he built has resulted in lifelong friendships and a consistent connection to Purdue. Furthermore, Dan's positive impact extended beyond just his athletes. He made my folks, and even my girlfriend at the time (now my wife), feel like part of the Purdue Swimming community. Although Dan's departure from Purdue will leave a gap, it is important to remember the many lives he has positively impacted around the world. Thank you for everything, Dan!
Tony Ten Haagen (2000-05)
Thanks Dan for the opportunity to swim for, and more importantly learn from, you and Purdue. I'm thankful every day that I had the chance to move to a new area of the country, meet new friends from all around the world, and compete in the Big Ten. I think it's important to continually push ourselves into new environments and new challenges and see what we can do. Growing up in a small town in New Hampshire, Purdue was really the first time I had an opportunity to do that, and it has shaped all of my decision making going forward.
I have so many great memories of my time at Purdue – almost impossible to list them all. On a regular basis, I think about having the chance to swim at the last dual meet at Lambert Pool, about the first day walking into the new pool, about going to the football games with the team, the training trip to Hawaii, the toughest practices, the good swims and the bad swims. And probably not a surprise, what I remember most are all the laughs I shared with you and the team – especially at some of the funniest things you said. Probably the quote that I repeat most often today was the one about how the other teams in the Big Ten were eating rocks and pencils for breakfast, not warm milk. I always get a lot of weird looks when I paraphrase that one at work or with my kids. :-)
Congrats on your retirement Dan. Thanks again for the opportunity to swim for you and Purdue. I look forward to congratulating you in person and shaking your hand sometime soon.
Matt Garrison (1997-2001)
Congratulations on a wonderful career! I remember and appreciate that Dan always made it clear that his job was to help us to be better men, not just better swimmers. I always admired that about him, especially now that I've become a father and gotten older.
I'll always appreciate Dan believing in me and bringing me to Purdue. I can't imagine my life without the Purdue swim team and the people he brought together that have made such a positive impact on my life. Purdue Swimming was easily one of the best parts of my life and I thank you for giving that to me.
Best quote: Freshman year. My roommate, Dave Weis, and I had gotten caught drinking beer in the dorms…again. Dan was informed and my parents were, too. I was most petrified to go to practice the next day and see Coach. The next morning, I got to Lambert and went to his office in pure shame and fear – telling him what happened. After a few minutes of waiting for the inevitable hammer to drop with screaming and suspension or at the very least a puke-worthy practice, he just calmly looked at me and said one sentence I'll never forget. "Beer is bad, get in the pool."
Thanks for everything, Dan! Wishing you all the best in retirement for you and Sally. Thank you for making me a Boilermaker!
Will Schrensky (2016-20)
Dan, I can't begin to thank you enough for the impact you have had in shaping the path I am on. Your constant prioritization of each swimmer's holistic life truly showed me that life is greater than any one moment. Your ability to calm anyone and to spread love is unmatched, and that spreads through each person you interact with.
Albert Miller (2008-12)
Dan, I will be ever grateful for you giving me a chance and allowing me to grow on your team. I formed lifelong friendships and gained experiences I wouldn't have had anywhere else. Heben shleeben, moo goo gai pan...you're the man!
John Mullen (2004-08)
Dan! It's inspiring what you've accomplished at Purdue and the positive impact you've made! Thank you for everything you've done over the many years.
Bo Ilgenfritz (2012-16)
My favorite Dan Ross memory happened during a swim practice during my freshman year. Dan has a pretty unique sense of humor on the pool deck, and I'm sure his swimmers all have a favorite Dan catchphrase. I was swimming in a lane with my classmate, Evan Barta, and he got out to use the restroom. He was getting out as I pushed off to swim a 50, and by the time I got back he was standing over the lane ready to get back in the pool. Dan over heard me say that he was magic for going to the bathroom so fast, so he started to call Evan "Magic Barta." That name stuck for four years. Every time I heard the nickname, I was reminded of the smile on Dan's face that day. Dan had a way of taking joy in life, even when things got tough, and I think that is a lesson that has served me well.
Doug Wagner (1985-89)
In the spring 1985, Dan recruited me from YMCA Nationals as a total long shot. I had mediocre times at best, but he believed in me. What started out as an opportunity to possibly swim at a Big Ten school became some of the best memories of my life. Dan took a bunch of scrapers from those early years and built a great swim team. He had to put up with some real knuckleheads, but he had the magic and fitness to make it happen. I doubt anyone else could have pulled it off. He's just a great man I am lucky to be coached by him!! Thanks Dan
Patrick Valentine (2004-08)
Being a member of the Purdue Swimming & Diving team provided many memories and friendships that I will never forget. Coach Ross was the epicenter of those amazing memories. I always appreciated how he was constantly striving to shape us into excellent men both in and out of the pool. Coach Ross cares more about our long-term success as people over pool success alone. Those qualities are hard to find these days. I thank him for his amazing coaching, mentorship, and friendship. Enjoy the retirement, you earned it!
Bruce Young (1975-79)
I was teammates with Dan from 1977-79. Dan was known for always being a positive influence during and outside of practice. No one cheered harder for his teammates at meets than Dan. I was not surprised to learn years later that Dan was named head coach of Purdue Men's Swimming. Dan elevated Purdue Swimming to a higher level, which he sustained during his 38-year tenure.
My daughter Rachel (2019-23) just finished her collegiate swim career at Purdue. She thoroughly enjoyed and grew from the experience. She would often remark at what a fun and encouraging presence Dan made whenever the women's and men's teams practiced together.
Congratulations Dan on the positive impact you made with your teammates, swimmers, and the Purdue Swim program.
James Boone (2015-19, Undergrad Assistant in 2019-20)
Dan Ross is truly what any coach should aspire to when building a tight-knit team. He is "Love your teammates" personified. Dan is a huge part of why I decided to become a coach and why I love to swim to this day.
Grant Lewis (2015-19)
My four years at Purdue were transformational for my journey as an athlete, student, and leader. The moments I remember most with Dan are not in the pool, but the conversations we had in which he challenged me to be a better person and leader. I am forever grateful for the lessons he taught me and I continue to apply them throughout my career and personal life. Thank you Dan and I wish you a happy retirement.
Ehud Dekter (1999-2003)
Thank you for allowing me to experience Purdue and be part of the amazing swim family. It's been almost 20 years since I graduated and I still remember many pieces of advice that you gave me, which impacted my life and the way I behave at some moments. I think the best lesson I took with me is from one of our trips to Hawaii when you told us that there are things that we can't control such as flights delays, etc. If that happens we need to keep calm and deal with it as expected from a Purdue Athletics team. I cherish many other moments I had at Purdue that are all due to you. Thank you, Dan! Enjoy your retirement.
Troy Fields (1989-93)
Congrats Dan on retirement and thank you for giving me a chance to be a part of an amazing program! The lifelong experiences and friendships that I was able to have as member of the men's swimming & diving team are things that I lean on every day. The daily encouragement and guidance you provide every team member during his time on campus is invaluable. I wish you the best in retirement and enjoy life to its fullest! Congrats!
Jeremy Wright (1999-03)
Dan has an incredible way of connecting with his team and getting the best out of it. I will always remember his way of comparing life's encounters to any swimming race. He wasn't wrong. Dan's passion for the university and program is second to none and his legacy is embodied amongst those he's influenced past and present. Congrats on retirement!
Tom Warta (1991-95)
It is amazing to reflect on how many years Dan has dedicated his life to Purdue.
Dan Ross = Purdue Swimming
He has had an impact on so many lives over the years. I'm forever grateful to him for giving me an opportunity to swim at Purdue. I cherish my college career and want to thank Dan for his coaching and leadership during my time at Purdue.
Dan welcomed me into the Purdue family, which led to me meeting my future wife and finding my lifelong career. If he didn't offer me an opportunity to be on the team, I wouldn't be living the wonderful life I do now!
I will never forget as a freshman Dan's speech to the team after a bad dual meet loss. It took place in a dark Lambert Fieldhouse where he let us know about his experience with Bud Lemon!
Congratulations and thank you, Dan!
Will Lyles (1977-79)
Dan, it's been a long time since we walked onto the outdoor Purdue pool deck together in August of '77. For two years, I believe we spent a lot of time in the same practice lane. Who can forget leaving Lambert, what a lousy pool, after morning practice during the coldest ever winter in 77-78 without any way to dry our hair, and hair sticking out of our hats freezing. Quite an experience for me as a kid from California. It was a lot of fun going through the experience with you, even if I only made it through two years as the slowest swimmer on the traveling team. I will miss coming back to campus and checking in with you on the pool deck occasionally. Knowing where the program came from, it is amazing what you have done with it. Congratulations on a great career and best wishes to you during your next stage.
Luke Ingram (2016-20)
Dan you have impacted my life definitely for the better. The way you view the world with empathy and respect is what I have picked up on and has helped me though, not only my career, but all other relationships I have made. The way you see the positives in each person and your ability to highlight what they are good at, for the betterment of the team, is something quite extraordinary to see in leadership. You never talked down to anyone, even when mistakes were made, and were still able to get your point across. You are the epitome of what a great leader, coach, and mentor looks like and I do my best to act and carry myself the same way in the Army/life. It was an honor to be able to serve under your tenure and I look forward to seeing how retirement treats you! God Bless and good luck on your next endeavor!
I was in the middle of a high school class when I got the call from Dan saying they were going to able to give me a preferred walk-on spot for the team. I was waiting on that call all week. When that call came in, I just got up and walked out of the classroom, not even letting anyone know. I came back in with the biggest smile on my face and felt as though I was on top of the world. I feel like I'm not the only person to feel that way after receiving that call from Dan. It is a memory I will always cherish.
Tom Kauble (1986-88)
Congratulations Coach Dan. Our summer in Wisconsin was a great time, other than the intense yardage some days! The discipline taught through the swimming team has carried with me through my entire career and personal life.
Heath McLaughlin (1993-97)
Dan was the single deciding factor in me choosing Purdue. After meeting him for just a couple hours, it was obvious he had the right attitude and the swimmers' best interests in mind, both in and out of the water. He had some great, hilarious speeches that I remember parts of over the years -- like how good the air is on Mount Mugumba, no dookie sticks, and no arm tackles. But Dan's leading by example, his showing all the student-athletes the value of a balanced lifestyle, and always doing the right thing even though nobody is looking…those will stick with me forever. Thanks Coach!
Dick Steinmetz (1953-57)
My swimming for Purdue preceded the swimming and coaching of Dan Ross. Dick "Pappy" Papenguth – the 1952 U.S. Women's Olympic swimming coach – was then the swimming coach and it's fitting the Dick Papenguth Fund helps to provide financial support for Purdue Swimming.
But I have kept in touch and visited Purdue Swimming to watch the successful coaching of Dan Ross. During that time, Dan had the "opportunity" to guide Purdue Swimming & Diving in our memorable Lambert Fieldhouse pool with the upgrade being a welcome reward.
Congratulations Dan. Your coaching recognitions are well deserved. And you can look back on the many grateful/successful Purdue graduates that competed for you when they learned to make it happen.
Joe Baer (1978-83)
In August of 1978, I started my freshman year at Purdue. I wanted to fully embrace college life and decided to attend The Island Fling at one of the fraternities. On my way over, I ran into a fellow underclassman swimmer named Dan Ross and he and I went to the gathering together. I really appreciated this at the time since I was new to the team. What I didn't realize at the time was that I had found my lifelong best friend. We roomed together the next year and until I graduated. College life suited us and our friendship grew exponentially during that time. I have known for many years, what most of you have also found out, Dan Ross is the BEST human being there is. Best Friend, Best Man (each for the other), Best Godfather to my oldest son, and the list goes on and on. Outside of my parents, he has been one of the most influential people in my life.
The first year we roomed together, Dan was a chemical engineering major like his father, but decided to change his major and become a coach. It was a difficult decision, but not one he ever regretted. Based on his storied career, it was one of the best decisions of his life. His career as the head coach of the Boilermaker swimming program is legendary. No one will ever do what he has done at Purdue; I am just glad that I was able to go along for the ride. I am so very proud of you. Congratulations on a Hall of Fame career!
Al Fager (1978-82)
Danny, first of all I'd like to congratulate you on your tenure as the Purdue Boilermakers' swimming head coach! Thirty-eight years is a record in itself. We got to know each other in the first three of your 42 years in the program. Swimming with you was a treasure as a Golden Nugget in Lambert Fieldhouse. We put in a lot of miles of hard work and I had a lot of great times! BDB, never imagined I'd meet anybody who could belch the whole alphabet in my life. May you and Sally enjoy this next phase! Al-O
PURDUE ALUMNI – WOMEN'S TEAM Christine Inman (2006-10)
Even being on the women's team, my Purdue experience would not have been the same without Dan Ross. The summers I spent training with him were definitely some of the most memorable for me. Anyone who has swam for him can tell you about how fun it was to have the weather report and inspirational "Dan-isms" on our daily workouts.
He has actually been encouraging and inspiring to me since I was an Age Grouper. Through my club team, I got to experience training in the old Lambert Fieldhouse pool, and there were a handful of times when the college swimmers here for the summer came to train outside with us in the Happy Hollow pool. Talk about some interesting workouts – outside with two lane lines in a 33 1/3-yard pool!
He has watched me grow up and was instrumental in me choosing to swim at Purdue, which has been one of the best and most rewarding experiences of my life. He was, and is, full of wisdom, encouragement and sound advice. I was a better swimmer and am a better person for having known him.
Katie (Hasbrook) Barbee (1995-99)
Dan Ross is a legend and we can all be proud that people think of him whenever they think about Purdue Swimming & Diving! Several memories of Dan stand out to me: co-ed practices, summer swimming with Boilermaker Aquatics, team dinners, and training trips (especially Hawaii). As a junior, Dan allowed me to train with the men's team twice a week when I had a class conflict and I really appreciated that opportunity. My freshman year, I remember Dan looking at three of us during a kick set in the outdoor Co-Rec pool and saying "Friends for life? It's a beautiful thing!". Dan taught us a lot about swimming, but he also taught us a lot about life! Dan, congratulations! I hope that you and Sally enjoy your well-deserved retirement! Thank you for all that you did for me as a student-athlete and as a person. And for representing Purdue as a phenomenal Boilermaker! I'm Ever Grateful!
Kendra (Hensler) Kitchel (1986-90)
I had the opportunity to swim on the women's team while Dan coached the men and had the opportunity to watch Dan coach while my daughter (Taite, 2015-19) swam for Purdue 25 years later. The common thread that stood out to me in both circumstances was Dan's commitment to all the swimmers and divers on the deck – men and women, Purdue, and the competition. Dan worked to ensure that each swimmer and diver had the opportunity and tools to grow as a person as well as an athlete. He invested a part of himself into each athlete in the Purdue program. Dan was a steadfast advocate for each student-athlete through each individual's journey at Purdue. Dan, enjoy your well-earned retirement!
Emily Fogle (2010-16)
Thank you, Dan, for always bringing Purdue passion, class, and joy to the pool deck for so many years. I felt safe and grateful during our combined practices (Saturday mornings and summertime) knowing you were coaching me. Not to mention the attention to detail which included the weather at the top of every workout! You are irreplaceable and your legacy will forever be etched in Purdue and the hearts of many. With much warmth, gratitude, and love.
Deb Thompson (1979-83) – Current Head Coach at Bethel College
Danny, I first knew you as a teammate then as our assistant coach. In my mind you were more like our head coach my senior year (1982-83). Up until then we (the women's team) had a separate coach. Doc was made the coach my senior year, but you were the one who spent the most time with us, trained us, corrected our stroke technique, supported us, and encouraged us. Thank you for that! After graduation, we all moved on and you stayed. I have coached at five different colleges over the years and you stayed true to the Black and Gold. That's amazing. Even though you are retiring, I know you will won't be far from the pool. It's in your blood. Congratulations!!
Kelsey Macaddino (2017-21)
While Dan was not my direct coach, he still had a profound impact on me during my years swimming for Purdue. I think that in and of itself says a lot about the kind of person Dan is. You didn't have to be a scoring member of his team for him to care about you and make you feel cared for. That is one of the things I appreciated the most about Dan; he made every person who was involved in the program feel like they were an important part of the team and he was happy to have them around. Swimming is a sport that can take a toll on your confidence when things aren't going well, and there were times during my time swimming for Purdue when I questioned whether I was helping the team at all. Every interaction that I had with Dan made me feel like I was, and for that I am incredibly grateful. I know he had this impact not only on me, but on countless others swimmers that passed through the program.
On a lighter note, I will always remember all of the laughs the team had trying to decipher Dan's typo-filled GroupMe messages, the debates between teammates while trying to decipher Dan's (self-declared) chicken-scratch handwritten practices, and the excitement of trying to solve the Purdue-themed crossword puzzles he put on the practice sheets during co-ed summer practices.
I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to be coached and mentored by Dan Ross. Dan is an amazing representation of what it means to be a Boilermaker, and he has made be very proud to be one.
Lizzy (Lyon) Tucker (2012-16)
Dan, thank you so much for the impact you have had on not only my life, but on the lives of countless others in the swim community. I so appreciated how you made Purdue Swimming & Diving feel like one big family. Thank you for taking me under your wing as a distance swimmer and encouraging me to be my best every day. I will never forget your kind words of support and fun demeanor on deck. The legacy you have left behind is incredible and your impact on the program will be felt for years to come. I am very grateful to have swam at Purdue during your tenure. You will be missed on deck but definitely deserve the best in retirement! Boiler Up!
Autumn (Sample) Kurtz (2000-04)
Dan you are one of the kind!! I felt fully seen in my summers swimming with you. You had a way of really getting me going and connecting – and I know I am just one in hundreds. I always felt really accepted by you as well. I feel so fortunate to have had the experience of being coached by you and swimming faster than ever under your guidance! It has been fun to connect where I can when life brings you near. Here's to connecting at The Masters next year in Augusta!
Becky (Wilson) Dreasher (1981-83)
My time on the team was a time of turmoil. I thought my swimming career was done after high school, but the women's coach encouraged me to give the team a try. She was gone before I made it back to campus. The next coach lasted only one season, but Danny was there, providing good humor and consistency. I remember him sharing his strategy for dealing with one of Coach Doc's sets of 50x50 in the few seconds between sendoffs: the song Roundabout by the band Yes. Lightness and endurance. I only made it through two seasons with the team, but during that time I was part of a family. Maybe it's ironic, but I'll most appreciate the grace Danny extended to me as I grappled with my decision to quit. I continue to coach masters, and hopefully I can pull it off with similar mix of good nature and toughness. Thanks for the memories, Coach.
Julie (O'Neill) Dussliere (1990-94)
Early in my first year at Purdue, the men's and women's teams were doing a joint long course outdoor workout in the old Co-Rec 50-meter pool. Dan was arranging lanes for the next set and asked me my stroke specialty. When I responded "freestyle," he said to pick another stroke. I hesitantly said "butterfly," not knowing what I might be getting myself into. Well, turns out I got myself into 10x200 fly on some interval that seemed insanely fast to me at the time. With encouragement and a few stroke tips from Dan, I successfully made it through the set and that workout helped me believe in myself and what I was capable of. I owe Dan a huge thank you for pushing me beyond the limits of what I thought I could do!
Erika (Whyte) Thompson (1995-99)
Thank you for all you've done for Purdue Swimming & Diving. Dan, you have impacted countless lives. The men's team admired you so much. I have never known a coach so beloved by his swimmers as you. You were like a hero to them. Enjoy the next chapter. Thank you for all you've done through the years.
Erica (Chandler) Cenci (2002-06)
Congrats, Dan! You helped to make my swim career complete! I loved swimming for you over the summer and also enjoyed being a part of the men's and women's swim & dive community. Appreciate all that you have done for the Boilermakers and Nick and I over the years! Wishing you all the best.
Taite Kitchel (2015-19)
Dan, I loved swimming under you!! My favorite memories were the guy/girl practices on Saturday mornings with the 20x50s fast set! I am so thankful for your time and commitment to Purdue – to the men's team, but also to the women's team! You always made a point to make both teams a family and I'll never forget that! Best wishes to you and Sally in the next chapter!!
Jackie Smailis (2015-19)
Dan Ross! The most positive guy on the pool deck! Always making everyone smile and laugh! Thank you so much for being such a big part of the women's team and being such an amazing human all the time! Congratulations on such an exciting and fulfilling career! I know you will be missed at Purdue.
Samantha Feulner (2010-14)
Dan was always a warm, enthusiastic presence on deck that could make me laugh during even the hardest practices. I always looked forward to the co-ed practices, even if it meant having to work to decipher his handwriting and acronyms. He also served as a great example of a husband and father. I am happy to call his son, Matt, one of my close friends and I'm grateful to have grown closer to the Ross Family post-graduation. Dan's character will be a tough void to fill, but I wish him a wonderful retirement.
Emily Converse (2016-21)
I am so grateful to have been coached by Dan! I had a lot of practices where I swam with the men due to conflicts with classes and he was always so welcoming. I have many memories of Dan. One of my favorites was during my senior year. I swam the mile at the Purdue Invite. It was my first mile since my sophomore year due to multiple surgeries. Dan was one of the first people to hug me and congratulate me on the progress I had made. Dan is definitely more than a coach to the Purdue Swim & Dive community. Dan has positively impacted his swimmers and everyone around him. Thank you for everything!
Melanie Bromwich (1996-2000)
I swam on the women's team but was lucky to have contact with Dan on a daily basis when the men came in for their practice as we finished our practice. Dan was an amazing coach and an amazing human being. He deeply cared not only for his swimmers but the swimmers on the women's team as well. Congrats on a wonderful career!
Claire (Williamson) Balfour (1984-88)
It was an honor and a privilege to swim at Purdue with you! I miss the atmosphere and the friendships we all made together! Blessing and good wishes as you retire and find time to enjoy life outside the swimming pool.
Catherine (Niehaus) Lawless (1986-88)
Coach Danny, heartfelt congratulations on your amazing career with Purdue Swimming. I have so many lifetime memories of my time on the swim team at Purdue with you, coach Kathie Wickstrand and coach Cathy Wright-Eger. The phrase that most sticks in my mind when I think of Coach Dan is from the long, long, bus trip to Texas and back in 1987. Coach Danny cheerfully saying at each stop – Let's take it to go Boilers. ;) Love you and thank you for all you've done.
Colleen Campbell (1987-89)
Coach Ross was one of the favorite coaches I have ever swam for. When our coach left the day we reported to campus in 1987, my teammates and I were devastated. Coach Ross was so great to us and really helped with the adjustment. I spent that summer swimming at Badger Pool in Madison for Danny and it was one of the most memorable summers of my life. We worked hard, swam fast and had fun. Thinking about my time swimming for Coach Ross always puts a smile on my face. I really wish he would have been my coach for the rest of the time at Purdue.
Stacie (Lesneski) Smith (2005-08)
I had the honor of swimming for Dan during the summers of 2006 and 2007 as a member of Boilermaker Aquatics. Not only did I have some great long-course success swimming under him, but he was a wicked fun coach and I looked forward to every workout. I learned so much from him and have so much respect for him – he is truly a class act. I wish I could have swam for him more than just two short summers, but I am grateful for the wisdom he shared, kindness and sense of humor. Wishing Dan and his family the best life has to offer in whatever his next adventures will be.
Jill (Groff) Regan (1986-90)
Thank you Dan for all the encouragement, mentorship and support you provided over the years. I'll never forget those early-morning workouts with the guys or spending the summer in Madison. Definitely memories of a lifetime. So happy for you and Sally as you begin your retirement. Good luck! Boiler Up!
Ariel (Martin) Hulme (2007-11)
Thank you for always being a great support system for anyone who has been with Purdue Swim & Dive throughout the years. I always appreciate how much you love Purdue. Boiler Up!
Jen (Merte) Freiman (2003-07)
I have so many great memories from summers at Purdue and I'm forever grateful for the opportunity to train with you. Congratulations on a remarkable career and enjoy your well-earned retirement!
Julie Watts (1985-89)
Congratulations Dan on such an amazing career. I am honored to be a small part of it. Great memories that will last a lifetime for me and a big thank you to you for making it possible. Best wishes!
Paula (Wilczek) Klipsch (1983-87)
My recruiting trip to Purdue was in the early fall of 1982, my senior year at Noblesville High School. I was shown around the facilities and campus and knew I was at "home." I think I may have been one of his first recruits?? Anyways, Danny offered me a full ride to Purdue and I couldn't sign fast enough.
Over the four years at Purdue, one of the craziest memories I have under Danny's coaching tenure was my sophomore year when both the men's and women's teams DROVE (in a caravan of vans) from Purdue to San Antonio to spend about 10 days of training over Christmas break. Several hundred hours later, we arrived in Texas. Welp, the weather turned too cold to train outside for a few days, so some of us decided to cross the U.S. border into Mexico to shop and explore. Naturally, Danny wasn't too happy with all of us since inside our blankets was booze bought in Mexico to take back to our motel. When we all crossed the border safely (without passports and about 20 of us), there was Danny waiting to kick our butts and make sure we arrived back at the motel safely. Another evening or two later…FBI, INS and the rest of the Texas Rangers raided our hotel because someone was helping immigrants cross over into the States with fake IDs. I've never seen so many paddy wagons in my life!
Danny, I'm really proud of everything that you have done to further the Purdue swimming program. It's been a stellar career! I will forever be grateful to you for giving me the opportunity to become a Boilermaker. It's truly changed my life! Enjoy your retirement, Danny, but try not to drive Sally too crazy. PURDUE ALUMNI – DIVERS Kirk Martin (1988-91)
I couldn't have asked for a better head coach than Dan! As a diver, we had less contact with him than the swimming competitors did – but he always made sure that all of us knew we were on the same team! One of the things that I loved, loved, LOVED about Purdue Swimming was the fact that – outside of the pool – there was no discernable difference between the swimmers and divers. We were all friends – we all went to the same parties, hung out together, rented apartments with each other, and never questioned the fact that we were teammates. I very much know that this was not the case at other schools. This atmosphere 100% comes back to Dan and the way he coached his teams. I was very fortunate to be part of his early career as the Purdue head coach. I've been thrilled to see how long it has lasted and the great success it has generated! Dan is an outstanding coach, and a first-class human being! Purdue Swimming will miss him!
Emily (Bretscher) Pfeiffer (2018-22)
Dan Ross never wavers in his joy and has a way of making you feel so welcomed and loved. When I was on the diving team at Purdue, I had another teammate named Emily. Every time he saw us, he would call us M&M. Never failing to check in and see how we were doing, even when the other M was not there.
My husband is from West Lafayette so we were back home over Christmas to visit his family. One day we went to the grocery store and I turn around to see Dan Ross with a smile on his face, ready to give me a hug. This is the man Dan Ross is. He welcomes all with open arms and has a way of making people feel so valued and loved. His joy is contagious and I am so grateful that I was on the diving team while he was there coaching. He is definitely one of a kind. Thank you, Dan, for all you have done and for the way you made Purdue Swim & Dive feel like a family!
Ben Bramley (2018-22)
As a diver, I will never forget my recruiting trip when Dan told me he would be like an uncle to me. At the time, I wasn't sure what this meant, but I quickly realized that he was one of the most caring and supportive coaches I had ever met. Over the years, Dan has been a constant source of encouragement, always there to provide guidance and support when I needed it most.
One of my fondest memories of Dan was during my junior year at Big Tens. I had a disappointing first day, and I was feeling down about my performance. I turned to Dan for a pep talk, and while he couldn't offer much technical advice, he gave me the confidence I needed to get back in the pool and perform at my best.
I'm so grateful for the support Dan offered to myself and others, and will always be proud to have had him as a coach.
MacKenzie Tweardy (2011-16)
Your impact in the swimming (and diving!) community is immeasurable.
Still, to this day, my favorite swim and dive memory was during the fall 2015 reunion. There had to be at least 75 of us in a room together and between all of us, our collegiate careers spanned decades. That was the day I realized the magnitude of your impact. Every person in that room except for one had been coached by you – and that one outlier swam with you.
To have a connection with strangers of "we went to a large university with of tens of thousands of students decades apart" will never be as meaningful as the connection I share with the decades of swimmers and divers of "we were part of the Dan Ross team." It's hard to imagine coming back to campus to visit and not seeing you on deck. It won't be the same without your booming voice, non-sensical motivating encouragement, giant smile and infectious attitude.
Congrats on an incredible career, Dan. I wish you the best in whatever comes next while enjoying more time with Sally and your boys! COACHING COLLEAGUES Tim Kahms – Purdue Class of 1983, Son of Former Purdue Head Coach Doc Kahms
Congrats on a successful coaching career. Having been there from the beginning as a fellow student and friend, being a part of the coaching fraternity in Lafayette for a bit, and also having watched as Dad (Doc Kahms) coached you both as a swimmer, mentored you as an assistant, and then seeing you go on to replace him in leading Purdue Swimming, all I can say is wow...what a great ride you've had Dan.
Dad had a great sense of pride in his relationship with you and I'm sure would be the first to congratulate you as you have so successfully completed your Boilermaker journey and step away from the school and program that he so dearly loved and also dedicated his entire career to. I imagine he's raised a beer (or maybe two along with a fish filet) in salute to you. He loved you and would be so happy for both you and Sally.
As for me, well...congrats again. It's a joy to call you a friend. All the best to you as you step into whatever is next for you and Sally. May God bless you both richly in this next phase of life. Boiler Up!
Jim Mountjoy – Purdue Diving Coach from 1994-2001
"I Believe" I officially met Dan in 1985. We didn't see each other again until 1994 when he and Cathy Wright-Eger interviewed me for the diving coach position at Purdue.
At some point during the six-plus hour interview, Dan looked at me and said, "I can't call you James, your name is Jim." That pretty much sealed the deal and started my seven-year coaching career (as Jim) at Purdue. It also began a mentor/friendship that I will cherish all my days.
Who I am as a man, as a father and as a coach/leader now, is in big part, due to watching and trying my very best to emulate Dan Ross. The stories you will hear by the hundreds are all heartfelt and true about a man that has touched so many lives both in the pool and out. I have enough that I could write a book, but one moment in time has always stood out to me as defining who Dan Ross is.
During what I remember to be the beginning of the 1995-96 season, Dan, Cathy and I held our yearly "meet the team" event in the VIP room of Mackey Arena. Everyone said a few words and then Dan came to the lectern to give his now famous "I Believe" talk.
If you have never heard Dan speak on his "this – not that" list of life, I highly recommend it. The items included in it were at times comical and at times very serious. The list itself isn't the thing that stands out the most though – what made it important was how as he delivered it, as though he was speaking directly to each and every person in that room. This is what makes Dan the admired and beloved individual that he is.
Dan, in his very thoughtful and purposeful way was showing each of us not just who he was and what he believed, but more importantly, what it meant to be a part of the team, a part of the Purdue family, and by extension, his family. This is what separates Dan from the multitude of amazing coaches and people I have met in my life. Dan believed in ALL of US. He wasn't just in it for the faster swims and getting the wins, he was in it to make us all better human beings. He truly cared about the individual and demonstrated it every single day in the way he coached and treated us all.
Dan Ross "Believed" in all of us, even with all our faults and foibles, and we are all much better athletes, coaches, mothers, fathers and more importantly, people, because of the impact he has made in our lives. I know that I, for one, am very thankful for his belief in me on that day in 1994 and for all the days since.
Nathan Lavery – Head Coach at Drexel University
I started coaching at Villanova in 2012 and for a few years we were on the same deck with Purdue at our midseason invite. Dan always included me in conversations that we both happened to be around on that deck. As a young coach that had reached out to "higher up" coaches and received no response (or was intentionally left out of conversations at times), what Dan did made an impact.
A number of years later I was around Dan at the CSCAA Convention in 2018 and was at dinner in a restaurant one night with a large group he happened to be in. I watched as he did the exact same thing, including young coaches and being a wonderful person to everyone around him. His love for Purdue and people shining through everything as always. Things like that keep young coaches going.
Thank you, Dan. The sport is better for having had you in it and that's the highest achievement any of us can attain within it.
Bill Roberts – Head Coach at the U.S. Naval Academy
Since the day I became a collegiate coach, you have provided an example second to none on how to do it the right way. Purdue University is lucky to have a person like you leading its young men and women. I have no doubt your impact and influence will extend well past 2023.
It has been an honor to share the pool deck with you and wish you the very best as you enjoy a well-deserved retirement. And if you are ever in the Baltimore/DV area, you have a standing invitation to swing over to take the jets skis out on the Chesapeake Bay. Very respectfully.
Jeanne Fleck – Head Coach at Fresno State
Dan's love and passion for swimming, the athletes and the coaches is second to none. For the 35 years I have known Dan, he always makes me smile. He always says how happy he is to see you and always has a great story to tell you. Thank you for helping so many and thank you for sharing your joy of PHISH and FOOD with all of us.
Matt Gianiodis – Head Coach at Michigan State
In November of 2016, the Big Ten had a special event in Indianapolis. The B1G All-Star Swim Team vs. the USA Swimming National Team. Of all the great coaches representing the Big Ten that day, it was Coach Ross who gave the pre-meet talk to the team. Bear in mind we had a coach who won a national championship in that group yet that was respect he had from his peers.
When I was promoted from assistant to head coach at Michigan State, the first call I made was to Coach Ross to ask him advice on what I should do to make it work. In short, I wanted my program to be like his program. I always admired Coach Ross. He always did what was the best for his team, his university and the Big Ten Conference. He mentored hundreds of swimmers and divers, as well as coaches, who went on to amazing careers.
In 2003, Coach offered me a job. Not accepting the offer is the worst decision I ever made. He is a great friend and a true Boilermaker. I have long admired Purdue and I am very happy for Coach Ross and his family.
Ian Walsh – Head Coach at Marshall University
Although our paths crossed a bit later in Dan's coaching journey, it was such a treat to watch his coaching style and presence alongside his student-athletes. His servant leadership style and humbleness stood out to me. It has reframed how I look at my role as a college coach and the impact we can make in these student-athletes' lives. It will not be WHAT he did at Purdue that will be remembered for, but HOW he did it. That will be his legacy.
Tanner Barton – Head Coach at John Carroll University; Former Head Coach at Cleveland State & Anderson University
I've said it before and I'll say it again… We had the best mentoring group in the CSCAA! I am grateful for your guidance and support. You prove that a coach can be wholly invested in family while still making a difference in the lives of student-athletes. Enjoy this next phase of life… You deserve it, Dan!
Alex Jerden – Purdue Assistant Coach 2019-23; Purdue Head Coach 2023-Present
First time I officially met Dan was during the weekend of Early Bird 2019 at Harry's. He invited the entire coaching staffs at the meet to join him there for wings and a drink on his dime. A great feel-good memory watching him delight in being a giver to his community and in making his sport better. My entire time in the Purdue coaching community has been punctuated by Dan's hospitality, his complimentary nature, and the way in which he used food to bring people together. Been a pleasure to be guided by Dan during my time on staff and I will always carry lessons from him on my coaching journey. FORMER/CURRENT STUDENT MANAGERS Ben Moritz (2002-07)
I began my freshman year in the fall of 2002 and began looking for opportunities to get involved around campus. Having swam for 12 years, but not being quite fast enough for division one, I sought out Coach Ross to ask about being a manager. Thankfully, he gave me a chance. That opportunity shaped the rest of my time at Purdue and led to many great memories, friendships, and experiences. Thanks Dan for letting me be a part of the team and getting to be part of a pretty awesome and unique college experience!
Phillip Phan (2016-20)
In 2016, I emailed Dan Ross three times about becoming the manager on the swim team since I've swam my entire life up until this point. While my first two emails went unanswered, I was going to give up after my third attempt. He replied to me on my last attempt that fall, "come and see me." Little did I know, those four words would impact my entire college experience.
Dan Ross, thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to manage one of the best swim and dive programs in the nation and learning from one of the best NCAA coaches in swimming history. Throughout those four years of managing, you were a great mentor to me as well, especially when I was deciding which job offer to take after college. You always put the team's interest first and you taught us many life lessons outside of the pool. You have left such a positive impact on many students' and people's lives. I am fortunate I got to be a part of the swim and dive team as a manager under your guidance. My best memories from Purdue are being a manager of the swim team, memories I wouldn't have if you hadn't sent that four-word email. Congratulations on a legendary career, and I wish you nothing but the absolute in your retirement!
I wanted to share the email story at the senior banquet in 2020, but unfortunately it ended up being cancelled due to the pandemic. Dan emailed me back when the team was practicing at Happy Hollow Pool when the aquatic center was being renovated. So it was a little tricky hunting him down! Looking back on it now, it was just a fun memory about how I got involved with the swim program and a valuable lesson on not letting obstacles get in the way of your goals and ambitions.
Greg Franzen (2008-12)
To put it simply, Dan Ross is THE most Purdue person I have ever had the benefit of meeting. Dan has been sharing and furthering the Purdue difference for 38-plus years and has been an excellent ambassador of all that makes Purdue great. Dan is kind, funny, loyal, and a man of high integrity – all characteristics that have made him a great coach respected by all of his peers. He has earned any type of retirement he wants but hopefully he stays connected to Purdue so future classes can have the benefit of experiencing how Purdue a person can be.
Kaitlyn Sinclair (2021-Present)
I, like many others, have felt the lasting positive impact that is Dan Ross on my life. I became the manager for the Purdue Men's Swim Team for the start of the 2021-2022 season. Dan had no idea who I was when I emailed him to ask about the position and neither of us had any idea what was to come in my time as manager alongside a head coach as remarkable as Dan.
I have had the pleasure to watch Dan interact with countless athletes, parents, coaches, and officials throughout the swimming community. It seems like everyone knows Dan and I know for a fact everyone loves Dan. At Dan's last NCAAs this year, I saw what seemed like every coach in NCAA Swimming come up to Dan and tell him congratulations on his career. Someone who has that many friends in the swimming world is obviously someone special.
Dan is the kind of coach that will drive an hour and 15 minutes to a morning practice (at 5:30am) just to meet one of his new commits. Dan is the kind of coach who says things for the sole purpose of making you smile. Dan is the kind of coach who loves and cares for his athletes and staff like they are his own.
Dan is proud to claim that he has been the son of a Purdue grad for almost 64 years, and I am proud to claim that I have been a friend of Dan Ross for almost 3 years. Being a part of the Boilermaker Swimming family at the same time as Dan Ross has been the pleasure of my life. Thank you, Dan.
Colleen O'Toole (2022-Present)
There are a lot of things I could say about Dan. I have interacted with Dan since my freshman year when I was a lifeguard at the Aquatic Center working during the men's swim practice time. He would come over and ask me questions about little things in my day or basic things about me. But before he walked away, he would always give me a fist bump. Through that connection, I was able to begin working with the team in February 2022 during the Big Ten Championships that Purdue hosted. After helping film for that meet, I knew I wanted to work with the team in the upcoming season. I reached out to Dan and Alex and they had me come into practice to shadow and see how everything runs.
Once the season started this year, Dan continued to impact my life. Being a part of the team, I was able to see how much Dan is Purdue Swimming. At all of the practices, meetings, meets and dinners, Dan made me feel like I was a member of his family. I knew that he cared about me and he always made it known that I was valued in his eyes. I know that leaving swimming behind will be hard for him but I know that he will succeed in his retirement. Dan, I am praying for you! I love you!
Katie Smith (2019-Present)
Dan Ross never fails to put a smile on anyone's face. Dan goes out of his way to make sure everyone on the pool deck (athlete or staff) feels welcome and a part of the Purdue Swim & Dive family. I will miss seeing Dan on deck and the joy that he brings to everyone. Whether that's just his silly noises he makes as you're walking past him, his incredible words of advice, or even just writing the daily weather report at the top of each workout. Dan, I'll miss you dearly!!
Graham Seaver (2022-Present)
Dan has been an incredible coach, leader, and role model for so many. Personally, his love for the team and incredible positive energy has taught me so much in such a short time. It's been a pleasure to get to be a part of the team with him. I wish him the best in retirement and hope he knows the love we all have for him! CURRENT STUDENT-ATHLETES Nick Sherman (2018-23)
Dan's impact on not only my life but the hundreds of student-athletes is profound. He found a way to put us through hell in the pool, find success, and teach us how to be better men and women all at once. A combination rarely found. Plus, his phrases and bad texting have provided so many laughs for my friends and I.
He has helped shape me into the person I am today through his love and support during the last five years. The Morgan J. Burke Aquatic Center pool deck will miss him dearly but there is no better definition of a lifelong Boilermaker! Thank you for sharing your passion with all of us!
Blake Ratliff (2019-Present)
The first time we ever spoke was on the phone during my senior year of high school. While we certainly discussed swimming, the majority of our conversation centered on The Masters and Tiger Woods' recent victory. I couldn't have imagined a better first impression.
The first time we met in person was during my freshman year's BGR week, right before the Boilers Back in Action event in Holloway. You greeted me with a smile and told me, "I'm glad to have you here." I knew you meant it.
I felt that same warm, welcoming at every single practice and competition. After my first ever meet, the Black & Gold Intrasquad, you told me, "You were a Boilermaker today," and I've held onto that ever since. You taught me that being a Boilermaker meant to be a fierce competitor, a strong leader, a compassionate teammate, and a well-mannered human being. Because of you, I will always strive to be a Boilermaker. Thank you, Coach Dan.
Kendra Bowen (2019-Present)
I have loved seeing Dan's smile on deck every day no matter what kind of day he was having. He always said hi to us as we left practice, asked how practice was, or told us to have a great day. I will definitely miss his presence next year, he always puts a smile on my face. I also love all of his iconic Hawaiian shirts!
Andrew Witty (2020-Present)
Dan is and was a walking highlight reel. Every day he comes on deck and does something that can only be described as "Dan like" and it just makes you feel at home. No matter what's going on in your life, it's difficult not to at least smirk when he's around. Further, Dan made sure to never stop sharing his vast life experiences and what he's learned from them in order to make us better men, fathers, sons, siblings, etc. as he would tell us.
His time on deck has had an indescribable impact on who I am and who I am still trying to be every day. My ears opened wider than any other time when I heard Dan beginning one of his speeches because I knew I would learn something new about how to be a better man every single time. I cannot wait to see how Dan enjoys his long-deserved retirement and to continue to follow his uniquely personable Instagram posts to keep us informed. The only accurate way to describe Dan Ross is as a national treasure who leaves a positive impact on every human he meets. And you can't tell me there's anything better than that.
Ethan Shaw (2020-Present)
Dan was instrumental in my transition from high school to college, both as a student-athlete and a person. I will always remember and appreciate his leadership and guidance during a very uncertain COVID season (in 2020-21). The values that he instilled in us went far beyond the pool and will last a lifetime. To me, his storied career was based on one guiding principle: love your teammates. If you love and embrace your teammates, the success will come, and it sure did. Dan, thank you for everything you have done for this program. Your impact will forever change this program for the better. All the best in retirement!
Aaron Frollo (2020-Present)
When I first got to Purdue a few years ago, I wasn't entirely sure that I was going to fit in. I'm a pretty shy person, and I had panic attacks on more than one occasion during my first few weeks here. I was also in a weird position with swimming since I had minimal interactions with Dan before coming to Purdue, most of my contact being with the assistant coach who had left that summer.
My trepidations almost immediately dissipated upon meeting Dan for the first time. He immediately welcomed me into the fold, and despite him being the only coach we had that year, he did a great job at making me feel like a valued member of the team. He talks a lot about this being a family, and I didn't really understand that until I got to experience it for myself. My initial fears of college life were quickly dissipated by Dan and the culture that he's brought to Purdue Swimming. I could not be happier with my choice to come represent his university.
As Dan prepares for retirement, I want to express my gratitude for the impact he has had on my life as a student-athlete at Purdue. Swimming for him has been an honor, and I am forever grateful for the sense of belonging and purpose he instilled within me as a small, very nervous college freshman. Thank you, Dan, and congratulations on your retirement.
Lindsay Turner (2019-23)
I remember taking a photo with Coach Dan on my recruiting trip back in 2018. He was friends with my head coach back in Carlsbad, California. Later that summer, I spoke with him at Summer Juniors and he was so kind and encouraging even though he barely knew me. Over the course of my four years at Purdue, he constantly asked questions about my flying career and was so invested in all of my endeavors. I will forever appreciate Dan's kindness and enthusiasm when it comes to everything he does.
Leanna Wall (2019-23)
Dan, throughout my time here at Purdue, you have made such a positive impact on my life. Every time I pass you at the pool, you always smile and ask how I'm doing. Small interactions like these make a HUGE difference! I appreciate everything you have done for me and this team. I wish you the best in retirement!!! -Leanna 3
Ana Rojas (2022-Present)
Dan made me feel a part of the team even as a freshman who was redshirting. He always put a smile on my face and would leave me feeling optimistic about my future as a Boilermaker, both in and out of the pool. I will miss his warmth and big heart. He always reminded the team to remember why we started to love swimming. To remember why we got up in the morning and to remember why we would continue to show up for one another. Dan never let us forget the importance of a team. Even within my few encounters with Dan, he made a lasting impact on me.
Raymond Whittaker (2022-Present)
Coach Dan spoke to me over the phone this year just before Big Tens while in the hospital with his mother. He took time out of his day to speak to me about my season and give me encouragement after I was not recognized as a part of the conference roster. His dedication to myself and the team even when he was dealing with incredibly important family matters inspired me. It pushes me to be a better teammate and person every day.
Dylan Burau (2022-Present)
Even though it was only for a year, Dan taught me how to fall in love with swimming again and remember why I fell in love with swimming. He also taught me that working with other people was so important in not only my own success but the success of everyone around you. These lessons will carry on with me for the rest of my life. I will be able to apply them in every aspect of my life and for that I am eternally grateful. Thank you, Dan.
Andy Kelly (2022-Present)
I only experienced Dan's leadership for one season, however he profoundly affected all of us freshmen. I'm very grateful to have been coached by Dan. While it's sad to see Coach Dan retire, having gratitude for his time here outweighs any tears. I think what I will be grateful for the most is his authenticity. As a team, we bought-in on Dan's message and coaching in such a way that we all swim for him. It is special to have a collective group of individuals operating as one unit for one purpose.
Many people share the same sentiment in which we thought of Dan as a father figure. The ability to relate to us and understand exactly how we were feeling was impactful for all us. Dan has unconditional love for the sport and for us swimmers. The impact he has had on generations of young men is something that few great souls can achieve. My favorite memories of Dan are when he would give speeches before practice to all of us. His ability to understand how any of us were feeling, and to give advice on our hardships is something I will always be grateful for.
Jenna Sonnenberg (2020-Present)
Every fist bump after practice brightened my day and put a smile on my face. Thank you, Dan, for being so kind, caring, and welcoming to me and everyone around you.
Madeline Greaves (2021-Present)
I will never forget every time I walked on the pool deck or past Dan – the peace signs that we exchanged or the sheeeeww noises. They made my day every time!
Reagan Mattice (2022-Present)
Dan was always a positive presence on deck, cheering on not only the men's team but the women's team, too. His energy, kindness and peace signs will be missed greatly.
Kate Saczawa (2020-Present)
Thank you for always making Purdue feel like a home away from home! PARENTS OF BOILERMAKERS Tim & Nancy Smith – Parents of Jack Smith (2019-2023)
As parents of a college athlete during the pandemic, we watched from afar as our son and the team navigated uncertain times. Dan was a steady rudder for the young men and they all came out the other side much closer and stronger than ever. We are so grateful for Dan's leadership, mentorship and friendship with our son. We could not have asked for a better coach for him. Thank you, Dan. You have left a huge, positive imprint on Jack and for that we will be eternally thankful. Enjoy your retirement with Sally and your boys.
Rob Lawrence & Julie Fream – Parents of Ryan Lawrence (2017-21)
We were blessed to have Ryan guided by great coaches throughout his career. Dan you are at the top of that mountain. Your wisdom reached beyond swimming and helped set a tone for how Ryan and his teammates found balance between sports, academics, and faith in each other. This was especially true of the classes that navigated the unprecedented impact of a global pandemic. I feel like Ryan, and each member of the team, was a part of your extended family. That's the hallmark of a great coach, and a great man. Thank you for everything.
I only wish we could have celebrated more time with Dan and the team during our years at Purdue. COVID cut that short, but because of Dan and our experience watching Ryan as part of a great team, we are now forever Boilermakers! Boiler Up!
Patrick Samuels – Father of Brady Samuels (2021-Present)
I can't begin to explain how grateful our family is for Dan. Although our son only had him for two years, he has had a major impact in his development, not only as an athlete, but as a young man. Dan offers so much more than just coaching swimming, he coaches life. Dan's extended career at Purdue demonstrates an uncommon loyalty seldom seen. He has touched the lives of hundreds of student athletes and we could not be more grateful that he touched ours. We wish Dan all the best in his much-deserved retirement. Forever a fellow Boilermaker! We love you Coach!
Chris & Michele Modglin – Parents of Coleman Modglin (2020-Present)
Dan, we cannot thank you enough for the positive impact you have had on our son, Coleman. One of the most meaningful things you did before he started his freshman year at Purdue was tell us that you have him now and you are going to take good care of him. You held true to that promise and for that we are so grateful. We began praying for Coleman before he was born. One of our longtime prayers was that he would have people in his life who would be able to help him grow and be a positive influence on him. You are an answer to both of those prayers! At the end of the day, it's the Purdue Swimming & Diving family that will matter most. Not times or standings. Thanks for your loving care of the family for 40-plus years. You are a legend, my friend. Blessings to you as you begin the next season of your life. Proudly Purdue.
Rob, Cheryl & Emily McIlrath (2009-13)
The McIlrath family would just like to wish Coach Ross all the best in this new chapter of your life. The memories of all who not only swam for you but know you personally is unmeasurable. To have impacted and touched so many lives has to be so rewarding. Best wishes and may God bless you.
Bill & Tara Blair – Parents of Wyatt Blair (2022-Present)
Congratulations Coach on a great career. We wish you all the best in your retirement. We feel so blessed that our son was able to be coached by you.
Kristina Zerpa – Mother of Ryan Zerpa (2021-Present)
Thank you Coach Ross for all you have done for Ryan and for all the men on this team for so many years! I will miss seeing you get excited and animated on the pool deck during big meets!
Debbie Mullen – Mother of John Mullen (2004-08)
Thank you for being a great coach and leader. You will be missed! SPECIAL CONTRIBUTIONS David Ross – Dan's Older Brother
My memories of Danny Ross (Danny, not Dan) are those of an older brother. I was an on-again-off-again "teammate" at Hammond Hills Pool in North Augusta (diving and a fill-in on a swimming relay), but mainly spent my time there in the lifeguard tower. My sister and I got dragged around to more swim meets in high school than we care to remember. Boring!?!
I read the memory from Joe Bear above and it reminded me of the time that Joe and Danny visited our apartment at the University of Georgia when I was in graduate school. We spent our meager grad student food budget on burgers and chips for Joe and Danny. When that was gone, Joe and Danny began digging through the fridge and cupboard for hot dogs, baked beans, green beans, corn, BBQ sauce packets, the last hot dog bun and all the ketchup. In two hours, it was like a herd of army ants had mowed through our kitchen. We had no idea how much food college swimmers could eat!
We visited Danny and Sally in West Lafayette very early in his coaching career. He took a phone call and returned saying, "well, you are looking at the WORST recruiter in sports!" Ten minutes later, ending another call, "well, you are looking at the GREATEST recruiter in sports!" Our Dad went to Purdue and we all grew up with Boilermaker sweatshirts (uh, what's a Boilermaker?). Danny had his heart set on going there, too. He "walked" onto the swim team, made the traveling team next year, finally made the Big Ten team and ended up coaching for you guys. Now, all these years later, I am proud of my little brother's perseverance, patience and stick-to-itiveness. But more than anything Purdue has been fortunate to have such a good human in its pool for so long.
Haley Agnew – Purdue Alumna & Daughter of Former Purdue Assistant Coach J. Agnew
My dad was a part of the Purdue Swimming & Diving coaching staff for 11 years of my life. During that time, and even after my Dad moved into a head coaching role at Ball State, we got to be a part of the Purdue Swimming & Diving family. Some of my greatest memories growing up were spent with my dad and Dan on the pool deck and traveling to other cities for swim meets. Dan facilitated an environment where everyone's families were welcomed into the team and I am so thankful for that.
Dan set a great example of a "Coach Dad" and always let his kids be involved with the team while supporting their individual passions. When my Dad and the rest of my family moved away, I was just starting my first year at Purdue. Dan always let me know that he was there for me if I needed anything. I was so thankful for that support during a huge period of change and uncertainty in life. I am beyond thankful for the impact Dan had on my family and me. Without him taking a chance on my Dad so long ago, I wouldn't be the diehard Boilermaker that I am today. Congratulations Dan on an incredible career and your retirement! Boiler Up!
Dale Banghart – Purdue Alumnus & Fellow Owen Hall Resident
Dan probably doesn't remember me but we both lived on the third floor of Owen Hall (northeast suite) at Purdue. Amazing how time flies and you're able to stay at Purdue since! I'm a pilot for American Airlines who retires on my 65th birthday next year. Congratulations.
Ben Turner – Purdue Swimming & Diving Communications Director (2010-Present)
Dan is always a joy to be around, like most everyone I have met associated with Purdue Swimming & Diving over the last dozen years. As Dan decided the time had come to call it a career after 40-plus years at Purdue, I enjoyed writing his career recap and mini tribute to make the news public while recognizing a loyal Boilermaker. I wrote it well past midnight in a hotel room 600 miles from campus, as is often the case in February and March while I'm on the road with Purdue Baseball.
I had witnessed firsthand what he meant to everyone at the pool and the swimming community. I knew we needed to give people the opportunity to contribute their memories and words of thanks about Dan. This endeavor was launched and compiling all of these tributes has also been quite enjoyable as well as emotional. Thanks to everyone that took the time to contribute in some fashion.
Dan is beloved by so many and is so very authentic. When things were going sideways in my life in a big way after my dad died late in the summer of 2019, Dan was the coach at Purdue who took the time to talk to me in a real fashion like we were friends. Commiserating with me about the grief and hopelessness I was mired in at the time. I'll never forget that. Thank you, Dan. All the best in retirement. COMMENTS COMPILED FROM SOCIAL MEDIA David Hansen (1983-87)
Dan is our northern star, unchanging, a light in the darkness. When all else in life seems hopeless, we remember "Dan is still at Purdue" and know that everything is going to be alright.
Larry Becker (1994-98)
Congrats, Dan! It goes without saying you impacted and influenced so many lives. Wishing you all the best with your retirement endeavors!
Chris Bals (2014-18)
I've never met a coach who cared so deeply for every one of his swimmers. Dan Ross made a tremendous impact on so many, myself included. Here's to a happy retirement.
Adam Johnston (2012-16)
I'll always remember when Dan came to my home and spoke to my mom and dad. He described what it was like to be a boilermaker, and how his goal would be to make me the best version of myself in and out of the pool. This was a major reason for me going to Purdue. Best wishes, Dan!
Joe Cifelli (2015-19)
Congratulations on a legendary run!! Thankful to have been on your team.
Jeff Wunderlich (1989-92)
Boiler Up! Such an amazing accomplishment!! Need to find a special place to honor Coach!!
Corey Bandura (2009-13)
Congrats Dan! You are a great coach and an even better person. Thank you for everything!
Mark Kujawski (1995-99)
Congrats Dan!!! Wishing you all the best in retirement! You'll always be the center of the Purdue Swimming family.
Andrew Alders (2020-Present)
Nobody could compare to Coach Dan, Congratulations!
Lisa (Dolansky) Conner (1999-03)
Thank you for everything you have given to Purdue! It was a privilege to swim with you each summer. Best wishes on your retirement!
Cathy (Ackerman) Steiner (1985-89)
Wow! What a career! I think I've seen your career from the very beginning, all the way back to Junior Nationals in Brown Deer, Wisconsin in 1983. Dan Ross is one of the best! Congratulations!
Erin (Mertz) Kastner (2009-11)
He was so fun to be around! Supported the divers just as much as the swimmers. Loved his encouragement and dedication to the team. He will be missed but deserves a good retirement.
Angie (Troester) Trujillo (1994-98)
Congrats Dan! Your positive impact on all is one that stands the test of time. Best of wishes to you on your retirement!
Alex (Todd) Martinez (2011-15)
You are a legend at Purdue and have done so much over the years!
Nora (Brolsma) Farrell (2009-13)
Congratulations Dan! You've have had a positive impact on many!
Gyöngyvér Lakos (1997-2001)
Thank you Dan! So lucky I got to know you!
Deanna Hrosik – Mother of Ryan Hrosik (2018-22)
No words can express our love and appreciation for what Dan Ross means to our family. Enjoy your retirement Coach. You definitely deserve it.
Catherine Shaw – Mother of Ethan Shaw (2020-Present)
It has been an absolute privilege, honor and a blessing for our son to have you as his head coach for the last three years. You truly care about all of the athletes as men and have set an incredible example of being a good man. Congratulations on your retirement and this exciting next chapter of your life! Thank you just doesn't seem adequate to express our gratitude for the impact you've had on our son.
Brooks Mattice – Father of Reagan Mattice (2022-Present)
Coach and Thank You for your impact on both of our kids. Reagan will miss your fist bumps on deck.
Sharon Sawyer – Grandmother of Griffin & Graham Sawyer (2020-Present)
Hope your new endeavor is very enjoyable for you. Congrats. Our grandson sure has liked swimming under your direction as head coach.
Dave Shondell – Purdue Volleyball Head Coach
Congratulations to Gentleman Dan Ross for an incredible and extremely memorable career as Purdue's swim skipper. His career will never be matched in commitment to his school, lives impacted, and friendships made. I'm so proud to consider Dan a great friend. See you on Ackerman!
Elliot Bloom – Purdue Alumnus & Purdue Basketball's Director of Administration & Operations
The Dean of Purdue Head Coaches – Dan Ross. Congrats on a tremendous career! Not sure there is someone around here who backs their fellow coaches and programs more than you. True Boiler!
Greg Earhart – Former Head Coach at Carthage College, Assistant at Indiana & Minnesota; Founder of Swim Cloud
This man has done so much for Purdue Swimming & Diving, Purdue University and coaches worldwide. DYK his swimmers have the longest careers and highest retention of any D1 swimming team? Amazing. Thank you, Dan Ross.
Lars Jorgensen – University of Kentucky Head Coach
Congratulations Dan Ross on an amazing career!! Great coach and better person who created an incredible legacy.
David Marsh – Assistant Coach at Cal; Former Head Coach of the USA Swimming Olympic Team & Auburn
Congrats Dan on an amazing and impactful career. All you have interacted with are better for their time with you! God Speed!
Pat Forde – Journalist & Father of Multiple Accomplished Swimmers
Happy retirement to a great guy and great ambassador for swimming, Purdue's Dan Ross.
Rowdy Gaines – Olympic Gold Medalist, International Swimming Hall of Famer & Longtime Swimming Commentator
Great coach, Better man
Courtney Hilmanowski
Congrats! I am sure coach Jack Pettinger is smiling down! I still remember him taking us to get sushi with you and some of the other coaches every time we were down at Purdue!
Dave Stacy
Dan Ross is one of the classiest coaches and gentlemen in the sport. He did things the right way and represented Purdue with enthusiasm and pride. He will be missed by his athletes and coaches, as well as the larger swimming community. Best of luck in retirement, Dan!
Emily Croft Schneider
You will be so missed. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the sport. What a true Boilermaker you are! Boiler Up!
Mary Wilson
Congratulations! You were swimming when I attended Purdue. A LOT of great swimmers came from your program.
Lisa Shirrell Paul
Thank you for your dedication to all these student athletes and being a great representative of Purdue.
Lanny Wilson
Congratulations Dan for your great years of service to Purdue and especially to the athletes you have made an impact on. Best to you in retirement.
Howard Zelaznik
Great career Dan. You also were an excellent student. Student-swimmers did well by you.
Connie Schneider
You have made such a difference to so many young men. Thank you.
Denise Ryan
Congrats, coach! Thank you for making such a huge difference for our swimmers!
It's the impact on the lives of others – including those in the coaching community, both locally and nationwide – where a coach really builds his legacy. After more than 40 years of coaching and sharing life lessons at his alma mater, Ross has a lot to be proud of as his distinguished run as head coach comes to a close at the end of June.
Ross has been the head coach of the Boilermakers since the 1985-86 school year, a remarkable 38-year tenure that spanned Purdue Swimming & Diving's Lambert Pool and Morgan J. Burke Aquatic Center eras. Originally arriving on campus in the fall of 1977 as a freshman from South Carolina, he also served as an assistant coach from 1981-82 to 1984-85 and helped design the Burke Aquatic Center.
"It has been the privilege of my life to coach this team," Ross says. "I loved every swimmer that I had the honor of coaching here at Purdue – from Lambert Pool or the original outdoor pool at the Co-Rec to the last 20 years at an unbelievable facility that is the Morgan J. Burke Aquatic Center. I told the current team, 'I love each and every one of you unconditionally and that will never go away.' This was a difficult decision, but my family helped me confirm what I knew in my heart – that it was time. Purdue Swimming & Diving is in amazing hands because of the people within the program that have made my final season a very special one."
Over three dozen classes of student-athletes at the pool have benefited from Ross' wisdom, life lessons and kindheartedness. He has impacted the lives of thousands of Boilermakers when accounting for the women's team at the aquatic center, with the two programs together representing the full Purdue Swimming & Diving family.
When Purdue Athletics offered program alumni, current Boilermakers and colleagues around the swimming & diving community the opportunity to share their memories and words of the thanks for Coach Ross, the tributes steadily rolled in throughout the month of April. This is an opportunity to read all the submissions honoring a loyal, dedicated, beloved and impactful Boilermaker – the second-longest tenured head coach in the history of Purdue Athletics, Dan Ross. PURDUE ALUMNI – MEN'S TEAM John Wakefield (1997-2001)
Dan Ross was the reason I went to Purdue. I think Dan is the reason all of us went to Purdue. Dan was exactly the type of coach that every kid who ever swam for Purdue needed. His patient, relaxed, and encouraging coaching style made the deck an upbeat and hopeful place. I, and nearly everyone who swam for him, look back at those four years as among the best and happiest of our lives. My class was the last to swim all four years in the Lambert Fieldhouse pool. While the pool was only six lanes and smaller than most high schools, somehow Dan's affable and inspiring nature made it a home that I dearly loved – although I still have scars from accidental collisions in the narrow lanes.
Almost everyone who ever swam for Dan Ross ended up as decent, fun, and reasonable men. People who graduated as Purdue Swimmers always did so as lifelong friends. I believe that is solely attributed to the leadership of Dan Ross in that he is, fundamentally, a good man. Kids from all corners of the globe and of all backgrounds were treated to the daily dose of Dan simply being himself – a decent, honorable, and sometimes hilarious man on the pool deck. We couldn't help but follow his example. Even to this day when I talk to my kids and want to say something encouraging, I often end it with Dan Ross' voice ("Chop, Chop, Suey, Suey, Moo Goo Gai Pan").
Dan, thank you for being there exactly when I needed you, and when all of us needed you. I am stunned at how fortunate I was to have been one of your swimmers and I am truly grateful for everything you have done for me. Congratulations on a well-earned retirement and on a job magnificently done!
Greg Jablonski (1985-89, Graduate Assistant Coach in 1990-91)
I was a part of Dan's first official recruiting class in 1985. It was an opportunity that would shape the rest of my life. I met my wife at Purdue and count my Boilermaker teammates as some of my best friends to this day. Dan taught us to be men and leaders, be accountable for our actions and treat people the way you want to be treated.
My memories of Dan are numerous, but here are a couple of highlights: our fourth-place finish at Big Tens in 1988 and his first Big Ten Coach of the year Award; training in the dungeon that was Lambert Pool; summers in Madison, Wisconsin, training with Dan and his coaching mentor Jack Pettinger; trading text messages before championship meets all the way up to this past year... the list goes on.
His selflessness, care and generosity are on display as he goes home to be with his mom in her later years. That says it all. Dan, your impact on my life and the lives of Mirka and our girls is immeasurable. We wish you, Sally and your boys all the best in the next chapter of your life.
Joe Gerzema (1988-92)
Trying to think of the perfect words as a tribute to Dan Ross led me back to the text I sent Dan in March minutes after his announcement. Love you, Danny! We all do!!!
March 7, 2023
I knew it was coming...my coach, my inspiration, my mentor, my big brother and the guy that allowed me to bleed gold and black. The guy that looked me in the eye on a Friday afternoon in Mackey Arena in April of '88 and told me I could be a member of his team.
The guy who I know had the gut-wrenching time telling me I wasn't on the Big Ten team in February of '90. The guy who left me the most incredible voicemail message the day before my wedding. The guy that gave me a hug I'll never forget at the reunion just a couple years ago.
To the guy who I watched coach his swimmers to their personal perfection a couple weeks ago at Big Tens – man, I'm so blessed to have been there. To the guy whose story about scoring that one point at Big Tens in the mile in 1981, and what that meant to him. Always, I mean always, stays with me.
You set the foundation. You built the program. You established the family. You made us burst with pride when we walked across campus in our parkas. That's you, Danny. I'm excited for you. Go rock the next phase of your life. This, what you have built, will always be here for years for you to beam with pride. So few have ever done this at not only our school, but our conference & the entire country.
P2S&D forever! Love you, Coach!
Kevin Scott (1988-92)
What stands out to me when I think of Dan Ross, and the pleasure it was to swim for him at Purdue, is his passion. Anyone spending any reasonable amount of time around Dan knows that he is extremely passionate about all that he loves: Sally, his boys (Eric, Matt & Andy), his family, his faith, his swimmers, the sport of swimming, golf, cats, hot sauce, cooking and eating, ketchup on a burger, and all things Purdue. One of the many things I am thankful to have learned from coach Dan Ross, not just from his words, but even more from his example, was to live life with passion – enthusiastically enjoying what you love. Thank you coach Dan Ross. Congratulations on an incredible career, and thank you for the opportunity to swim for you at Purdue!
Mike Zientek (1990-94)
In 1989, I reached out to Dan as a swimmer that did not know much about Purdue Swimming and only the reputation of the school. Out of all the schools I looked at, even at this early stage of Dan's career, you could see how much Dan loved his school and his team. He also embraced Lambert Pool for all its shortcomings including the occasional tile marks on the foreheads of our diver brethren.
Dan taught me probably more about what is important in life, than about swimming. That is saying a lot, because he pushed us hard, and taught us much about being winners in the pool and even more about being winners in life. He taught us about the respect we need to show for our teammates, and the lessons of marriage and having children.
I think no one will ever forget the day we walked into practice in the early hours of the morning, when Dan sat the full men's team down on the tile benches of Lambert and talked about the pride and reverence he had for Sally in the birth of their newborn child. It stuck with me through my marriage, the birth of our own children and even today almost 30 years later.
This is just one lesson of many that Dan provided to all of us beyond the pool, usually with some amazing quotes that I am sure will be well documented throughout these tributes. It is funny to think that the swimming, and how it formed all of us, was far less impactful than the lessons of life and the love of Purdue that Dan gave us. I am truly grateful for all that Dan provided to us and still does today to all of generations of student-athletes. Hail Purdue and go Boilers!
Matt Martin (1997-2001)
Going way back to 1996, Dan came to Mission Viejo. He was looking at several recruits, but we instantly bonded. He saw potential in a kid who was 5-foot-3 as a high school junior. Dan always recruited the entire young man, not just their swimming times. When I made the choice for Purdue, I simply told my surprised Southern California family: "It just feels like family."
Dan was more than a swim coach, he was the leader of men. He always preached balance in life. My time in West Lafayette was some of the best of my life. Each scar on my hands from training in Lambert Pool is a badge of honor – all alumni who trained in that pool know the sting of cracking hands passing each other. I am immensely proud of my athletic career, but it goes far beyond that. I have lifelong friends that remain close to this day. I met my beautiful wife and now have a great family with two (hopefully future Boiler) kiddos. His philosophy on "STUDENT-athlete" has blossomed into a rewarding career in medicine.
The impact he's had on me and countless others cannot be overstated. One of life's goals is to leave this earth better than you found it. Dan, your dedication to building young men is incredible. Your teachings live on in each of your former athletes. From the bottom of my heart, congratulations on an amazing career.
Joe Sheehan (1989-94)
Congrats on the retirement. Thanks for not only being a great coach but a great role model to so many young men that have gone through the program. Best Wishes. GO BOILERS!!!
As Dan always stated, to be truly happy during your four years at Purdue, you need to have a balance of school, swimming and social life. Without the balance, one isn't truly going to be successful or happy. However, there is only one time a year that Dan did ask for the balance to become unbalanced, which was Big Ten Championships week. He wanted everyone to solely focus on swimming.
Well, back in February 1990 a week or so before Big Tens, I wasn't feeling confident going into it so I showed up at Dan's office at Mackey to talk to him about how the rest was going, etc. Well, he proceeded to talk about "The making of a cheeseburger" and how that relates to getting ready for the Big Ten Championships. He noted, one can have all the talent in the world – which he called the best burger meat; work the hardest day in and day out – which he considered that the bun, cheese, tomato and lettuce; but unless you have the confidence one will fail. He compared that to not adding the ketchup to the cheeseburger. He wanted me to truly just focus on "adding the ketchup" over the next week or so as this was the only time of year he'd ask for us to truly just focus on swimming. I sat there throughout this analogy just nodding my head kind of letting him go on and on about the cheeseburger and ketchup. Well after our discussion I headed to practice thinking that was the end of that analogy.
Little did I know Dan had kept that thought about the cheeseburger/ketchup analogy in his head. As we all sat getting ready to jump in the pool for warmup at the shallow end, Dan started talking about the cheeseburger/ketchup analogy and how we all needed to "add the ketchup to the cheeseburger" from now until Big Tens was over. Well, the funniest part of all of this is as Dan was going on and on, he was walking around the pool such that he was still talking while he was near the diving boards. We all looked at each other like, are we supposed to follow him, or do we just let him keep going on like John Belushi in in Animal House – "was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?" Well after a few more minutes Dan did stop to let us get rolling on the warmup.
Some of us swam well at Big Tens while others were a little off. But regardless of our performance, probably only a handful of us can remember any time we swam there. However, I can undoubtedly tell you all of us still remember to this day the Big Ten Championships shirts the captains had made up!
Thanks for the memories Dan. You were always more than just a coach to so many young men and women that came through this program. You were a role model of how one should conduct themselves on a daily basis.
Gui Rego (1999-2003)
Dan, coming to the U.S. and swimming with you has changed the trajectory of my life in such a positive way. I can only imagine how many lives were impacted by your leadership, sense of justice and genuine friendship. I wish you, Sally and the family a great next chapter. Hopefully you make a trip to San Diego and we can have a great meal together. Love and gratitude.
Louis Paul (2001-05)
In 2001 I wrote a generic email to a number of swim coaches in the U.S. from Sydney, Australia. Dan was the only coach to respond. I spoke to him once on the phone and that's all it took for me to want to be coached by Dan. I left a Sydney summer for Dan to pick me up in an Indiana winter. We drove up I-65 in the dark. He didn't say much but I knew in my heart he was going to look out for me no matter what.
I spent 4 ½ years swimming faster than I ever thought possible with Dan. But more than that, I keep coming back to the life lessons he instilled in me. Balance in all things, work hard and good things will come, do your damn school work!!!
He will always be my best coach, swimming or otherwise. A true mentor. Dan, I hope you thoroughly enjoy your most well-deserved retirement. Kind regards.
Batuhan Hakan (2017-22)
Coming from a different country, leaving your families and friends, is something that you cannot know without experiencing it. Dan became my big brother/dad in the U.S. He helped me tremendously with his helping/caring/loving/great personality. The culture he created made me feel like a team/family member rather than a stranger. But his biggest impact on me was to give me many perspectives of interpreting things. The "worry about things that you can change" phrase helped me a lot when I had my downs. Sometimes we worry too much about the stuff we don't even have any control over and that frustrates us even more. There is no way to tell every impact Dan has had and still has on my life. Thank you!
Marat Amaltdinov (2014-18)
One of the things that makes Dan so special is that he cares about all his athletes – not just as athletes, but as individuals first. He is always there to help and give invaluable advice. Dan is a great mentor and has had one of the biggest impacts on my life. Thank you, Dan, and congratulations on a remarkable career!
Sven M. Soedel (1980-84)
I was fortunate enough to be both a teammate with Dan and also have him as a coach! I was a freshman when Dan was a senior on the team at Lambert Pool and had Dan as an assistant coach to Doc Kahms my last couple years. I have too many great stories of the team adventures we all had. So many good times. It was either Dan or Joe Baer driving one of the Purdue vans that rear ended the other van on the Christmas break trip to South Texas. Remember the infamous bus trip and subsequent disastrous meet at Clemson?
Dan and Joe's campus apartment annual party was legendary way back then. I've had the pleasure of seeing Dan over relatively recent years at NCAA Championship meets and USA Swimming senior national events when my son Nick was swimming at the University of Utah (2011-15). I also enjoyed seeing Dan and Sally at the Pigskin Classic at the LA Coliseum where USC squeaked out a win over us with Drew Brees. Everyone and the swimming community will sorely miss Dan! Congratulations on your retirement!
Dave Griscom (1980-84)
Great memories of Dan as a friend, teammate and coach. I was fortunate to be a teammate at Purdue and my senior year he became my coach. Interesting times as Doc Kahms was my coach for three great years and then transitioned to Dan. Particular memories were rooming with Dan, Joe Baer and Ken Karl during winter training in Mercedes, Texas. Another was my freshman year ridesharing from New Jersey with Dan and Joe – somehow the freshman became the primary driver for the 10-hour trip back to Purdue.
Congrats Dan on your retirement and your awesome career. What've you done to grow and develop Purdue Swimming has impacted so many! All the best to you and Sally.
Danny Tucker (2010-14)
Dan pulled me into his office before my senior year and told me that he sees himself as more of my manager than my coach. I was in sprint group. And he continued to tell me that he was going to do everything he could to facilitate my success.
The first week of practice you would include "etiquette talks" in the practice. And etiquette was spelled different every day.
When I was put on standby for a flight home, you smiled and reminded me to be patient and polite. After following your advice, the crew gave me a first-class seat home.
Most importantly, when I was having a rough time my first semester, you were a constant force of positivity. You were forgiving when I wasn't the best Boilermaker I could be.
Dan, you were not just my manager, you were my coach. You coached all of us on how to be decent human beings. How to navigate the world as an adult when we no longer get free chocolate milk. How to be someone that people want to be around. Thank you for everything.
Tad Sayce (1999-2003)
I was planning on going to Arizona State. My club coach, Mike Chasson, had just taken over the team there. During my recruiting visit, Mike told me that I couldn't make a final decision before taking a trip to Purdue. I remember thinking, "what the heck is Purdue?" Fast forward a few weeks and Dan Ross was sitting in my parents' living room in New Hampshire. I had just returned home from my Purdue recruiting trip and had missed meeting Dan on campus because he was traveling for a meet. Indiana was a long way from home, but after that short home visit, Dan had easily won my parents' trust. I was only thinking about my swimming (maybe a little academics), but my parents were thinking about how the next four years would influence the type of person I became.
Especially now as a parent myself, I am grateful for how grounded Dan was as a coach – always striving to keep our student-athlete life balanced and in perspective of the bigger life picture. He required that we work hard and be competitive, but he also allowed and enabled us to have fun.
I remember being super nervous to deliver a speech at the dedication of the new pool in 2001. Sitting next to Dan's calm presence made it doable. His delivery was always so clear and concise. I found confidence in myself by seeking to emulate his delivery. I still do today.
Another impactful memory was when Dan talked to me about becoming team captain. He said simply, "You just have to do one thing: Stay true to yourself and don't change who you are."
I also recall Dan reminding us to:
-- "Concern yourself only with what you can control."
-- "Stay the course, do the work, and adhere to the plan."
-- "Look 'em in the eyes when shaking hands."
-- "If you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all."
Dan, thank you for welcoming me into the Purdue family, guiding me and my teammates, and fostering such an amazing collegiate experience. I am forever grateful. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement. Hail Purdue!
Fritz Schumann (1975-79)
Dan Ross came to Lane 1 at Lambert Pool in the fall of '77 and we trained together. I'm still scarred by being washed into the gutters by the likes of Jack Mossberg and others. But nonetheless we made a good go of it; I really enjoyed and appreciated sharing the grind of training with Dan. After a couple of years with swimming roommates (Bob Remaly) at Wiley Hall, I had moved to the Phi Delt house with fellow swimmers Ron Kurz and Bill Lewis. I really enjoyed our training group at Lambert and my time with the team.
After graduation we sort of switched places as I moved east with the DuPont Company to Dan's home territory and Dan stayed in Boilermaker territory. It's been great through the years knowing that "I know the coach" at my alma mater and Dan has done a great job leading Boilermaker Swimming! I enjoyed dropping by the pool in recent years to chat when I visited campus while my daughter was at Purdue ('20 PharmD), and going to the awesome new Boilermaker Aquatic Center. Congrats Dan! I'm certain you'll enjoy retirement!
Jeremy Zeid (1995-99)
From the moment I arrived on campus for my unofficial recruiting trip in the spring of 1994, I had a very strong sense that Purdue is where I wanted to attend college and where I wanted to continue my swimming carrier. Meeting Dan Ross immediately solidified that feeling. I was lucky enough to swim for Purdue University under Dan's coaching. Dan was integral to my experience at Purdue and absolutely responsible for helping shape me into the person that I am today.
His philosophy on life, swimming, the "equilateral triangle" and balance has carried through in many aspects of my life still to this day. Dan's passion for swimming, his passion for Purdue University and his genuine care/attention for the individual human being you are is so deep and so strong. It fills my heart to know that hundreds of Purdue Swimming alumni were also able to experience who Dan is and to have experienced the incredible influence he has had on their lives. The memories are too many to recount here, but they live on...BOILER UP! Congrats Dan!
John Saczawa (1981-85)
Dan and I met in the late summer of 1981. Early-season training at the Co-Rec "lake pool" and my first days into college. The 1981-82 freshman class was/is a fantastic group of swimmers and friends. Dan was a graduate assistant to coach Doc Kahms. We loved Dan right from the jump; he was a highly visible and on-deck presence right away. I'm sure he barely got paid if at all! Dan, Joe Bear and Bob Norris were all both the best and the worst thing for us newbies!
By the time we "upgraded" from the Co-Rec to Lambert and the oil paintings staring over us – Coach Dan was our biggest presence and cheerleader. He understood those colds walks to a.m. practices and was always there getting us going. Late nights too – I remember low ceilings, great album collections and a few beers! After that first year, I think Coach Dan figured he better do a little separation of "church and state."
I got to see and be around Dan for the bookends of his coaching career. Right when he started and then as he wraps up my daughter (Kate, 2020-Present) has been on and around the swim team. A few swim camps in between.
With all his success and tenure as a first class Big Ten coach and stellar representative of our Purdue, the most important qualities have never wavered and are infinitely present. Dan cares about people and their wellbeing first and foremost. Solid as a rock – always, always there for you. There to stand beside you as you rise, there to catch you as you fall. He was my "dad" on campus and still there to be my daughter's "grandpa" when she arrived. Dan you mean so much to me and my family. We wish you, Sally, and your family a remarkably earned lazy days filled with love, fun, rest and the building of even further great memories and adventures.
Kyle Jackson (2000-04)
I joined the program in 2000. Dan's history with Purdue played a big part in why I wanted to join. Dan taught me so many lessons, which I continue to use to this day. I will always remember the day I was ready to share with him that I was gay and that I was terrified that I would lose everyone close to me in my life after telling them. His empathy and the direction he gave me in that conversation gave me confidence to finally open up to others. I am so lucky that Dan allowed me to swim for him at Purdue as it changed my life.
Ryan Dafforn (2007-11)
Thank you, Dan, for giving me and countless others the opportunity to swim at Purdue and be Boilermakers. A world-class coach and person who taught us so much more than about swimming; I'll always be most appreciative for you and the inclusive environment you created at the pool and on our teams. Being a Purdue swimmer will forever be one of my proudest accomplishments and I have Dan to thank for providing me that opportunity. Congratulations on a very much-deserved retirement.
Norman Schultz (1984-88)
Having swam under Coach Dan during his early years as head coach, it's no surprise that he is where he is today. Character-minded, technical approach and motivating – he had a way of bringing us all together, creating an environment of camaraderie. Memories of my time at Purdue: daily pool time in Lambert, Hawaii training trips, the season of three-hour Sunday morning workouts, summer in Madison, indicator sets. The entire experience was challenging and fun. Use failure as a life lesson, one interval at a time, stay late be great. Purdue Pride in Swimming (P2S)! Banzai!
Congratulations on your outstanding career!
Donovan Crowley (1998-2002)
In 1998, I made the decision to attend Purdue University, largely due to the influence of Dan Ross. Having visited other universities during the recruitment process, I was convinced that Dan was the coach who would not only support my swimming goals, but also prioritize my academic needs. As those reading this likely know, he lived up to that expectation and more. His approach was balanced – he provided guidance that extended beyond athletics, encompassing personal growth and academic excellence. Dan's leadership was based on setting an example, which is something I have always found important in my own life. The team he built has resulted in lifelong friendships and a consistent connection to Purdue. Furthermore, Dan's positive impact extended beyond just his athletes. He made my folks, and even my girlfriend at the time (now my wife), feel like part of the Purdue Swimming community. Although Dan's departure from Purdue will leave a gap, it is important to remember the many lives he has positively impacted around the world. Thank you for everything, Dan!
Tony Ten Haagen (2000-05)
Thanks Dan for the opportunity to swim for, and more importantly learn from, you and Purdue. I'm thankful every day that I had the chance to move to a new area of the country, meet new friends from all around the world, and compete in the Big Ten. I think it's important to continually push ourselves into new environments and new challenges and see what we can do. Growing up in a small town in New Hampshire, Purdue was really the first time I had an opportunity to do that, and it has shaped all of my decision making going forward.
I have so many great memories of my time at Purdue – almost impossible to list them all. On a regular basis, I think about having the chance to swim at the last dual meet at Lambert Pool, about the first day walking into the new pool, about going to the football games with the team, the training trip to Hawaii, the toughest practices, the good swims and the bad swims. And probably not a surprise, what I remember most are all the laughs I shared with you and the team – especially at some of the funniest things you said. Probably the quote that I repeat most often today was the one about how the other teams in the Big Ten were eating rocks and pencils for breakfast, not warm milk. I always get a lot of weird looks when I paraphrase that one at work or with my kids. :-)
Congrats on your retirement Dan. Thanks again for the opportunity to swim for you and Purdue. I look forward to congratulating you in person and shaking your hand sometime soon.
Matt Garrison (1997-2001)
Congratulations on a wonderful career! I remember and appreciate that Dan always made it clear that his job was to help us to be better men, not just better swimmers. I always admired that about him, especially now that I've become a father and gotten older.
I'll always appreciate Dan believing in me and bringing me to Purdue. I can't imagine my life without the Purdue swim team and the people he brought together that have made such a positive impact on my life. Purdue Swimming was easily one of the best parts of my life and I thank you for giving that to me.
Best quote: Freshman year. My roommate, Dave Weis, and I had gotten caught drinking beer in the dorms…again. Dan was informed and my parents were, too. I was most petrified to go to practice the next day and see Coach. The next morning, I got to Lambert and went to his office in pure shame and fear – telling him what happened. After a few minutes of waiting for the inevitable hammer to drop with screaming and suspension or at the very least a puke-worthy practice, he just calmly looked at me and said one sentence I'll never forget. "Beer is bad, get in the pool."
Thanks for everything, Dan! Wishing you all the best in retirement for you and Sally. Thank you for making me a Boilermaker!
Will Schrensky (2016-20)
Dan, I can't begin to thank you enough for the impact you have had in shaping the path I am on. Your constant prioritization of each swimmer's holistic life truly showed me that life is greater than any one moment. Your ability to calm anyone and to spread love is unmatched, and that spreads through each person you interact with.
Albert Miller (2008-12)
Dan, I will be ever grateful for you giving me a chance and allowing me to grow on your team. I formed lifelong friendships and gained experiences I wouldn't have had anywhere else. Heben shleeben, moo goo gai pan...you're the man!
John Mullen (2004-08)
Dan! It's inspiring what you've accomplished at Purdue and the positive impact you've made! Thank you for everything you've done over the many years.
Bo Ilgenfritz (2012-16)
My favorite Dan Ross memory happened during a swim practice during my freshman year. Dan has a pretty unique sense of humor on the pool deck, and I'm sure his swimmers all have a favorite Dan catchphrase. I was swimming in a lane with my classmate, Evan Barta, and he got out to use the restroom. He was getting out as I pushed off to swim a 50, and by the time I got back he was standing over the lane ready to get back in the pool. Dan over heard me say that he was magic for going to the bathroom so fast, so he started to call Evan "Magic Barta." That name stuck for four years. Every time I heard the nickname, I was reminded of the smile on Dan's face that day. Dan had a way of taking joy in life, even when things got tough, and I think that is a lesson that has served me well.
Doug Wagner (1985-89)
In the spring 1985, Dan recruited me from YMCA Nationals as a total long shot. I had mediocre times at best, but he believed in me. What started out as an opportunity to possibly swim at a Big Ten school became some of the best memories of my life. Dan took a bunch of scrapers from those early years and built a great swim team. He had to put up with some real knuckleheads, but he had the magic and fitness to make it happen. I doubt anyone else could have pulled it off. He's just a great man I am lucky to be coached by him!! Thanks Dan
Patrick Valentine (2004-08)
Being a member of the Purdue Swimming & Diving team provided many memories and friendships that I will never forget. Coach Ross was the epicenter of those amazing memories. I always appreciated how he was constantly striving to shape us into excellent men both in and out of the pool. Coach Ross cares more about our long-term success as people over pool success alone. Those qualities are hard to find these days. I thank him for his amazing coaching, mentorship, and friendship. Enjoy the retirement, you earned it!
Bruce Young (1975-79)
I was teammates with Dan from 1977-79. Dan was known for always being a positive influence during and outside of practice. No one cheered harder for his teammates at meets than Dan. I was not surprised to learn years later that Dan was named head coach of Purdue Men's Swimming. Dan elevated Purdue Swimming to a higher level, which he sustained during his 38-year tenure.
My daughter Rachel (2019-23) just finished her collegiate swim career at Purdue. She thoroughly enjoyed and grew from the experience. She would often remark at what a fun and encouraging presence Dan made whenever the women's and men's teams practiced together.
Congratulations Dan on the positive impact you made with your teammates, swimmers, and the Purdue Swim program.
James Boone (2015-19, Undergrad Assistant in 2019-20)
Dan Ross is truly what any coach should aspire to when building a tight-knit team. He is "Love your teammates" personified. Dan is a huge part of why I decided to become a coach and why I love to swim to this day.
Grant Lewis (2015-19)
My four years at Purdue were transformational for my journey as an athlete, student, and leader. The moments I remember most with Dan are not in the pool, but the conversations we had in which he challenged me to be a better person and leader. I am forever grateful for the lessons he taught me and I continue to apply them throughout my career and personal life. Thank you Dan and I wish you a happy retirement.
Ehud Dekter (1999-2003)
Thank you for allowing me to experience Purdue and be part of the amazing swim family. It's been almost 20 years since I graduated and I still remember many pieces of advice that you gave me, which impacted my life and the way I behave at some moments. I think the best lesson I took with me is from one of our trips to Hawaii when you told us that there are things that we can't control such as flights delays, etc. If that happens we need to keep calm and deal with it as expected from a Purdue Athletics team. I cherish many other moments I had at Purdue that are all due to you. Thank you, Dan! Enjoy your retirement.
Troy Fields (1989-93)
Congrats Dan on retirement and thank you for giving me a chance to be a part of an amazing program! The lifelong experiences and friendships that I was able to have as member of the men's swimming & diving team are things that I lean on every day. The daily encouragement and guidance you provide every team member during his time on campus is invaluable. I wish you the best in retirement and enjoy life to its fullest! Congrats!
Jeremy Wright (1999-03)
Dan has an incredible way of connecting with his team and getting the best out of it. I will always remember his way of comparing life's encounters to any swimming race. He wasn't wrong. Dan's passion for the university and program is second to none and his legacy is embodied amongst those he's influenced past and present. Congrats on retirement!
Tom Warta (1991-95)
It is amazing to reflect on how many years Dan has dedicated his life to Purdue.
Dan Ross = Purdue Swimming
He has had an impact on so many lives over the years. I'm forever grateful to him for giving me an opportunity to swim at Purdue. I cherish my college career and want to thank Dan for his coaching and leadership during my time at Purdue.
Dan welcomed me into the Purdue family, which led to me meeting my future wife and finding my lifelong career. If he didn't offer me an opportunity to be on the team, I wouldn't be living the wonderful life I do now!
I will never forget as a freshman Dan's speech to the team after a bad dual meet loss. It took place in a dark Lambert Fieldhouse where he let us know about his experience with Bud Lemon!
Congratulations and thank you, Dan!
Will Lyles (1977-79)
Dan, it's been a long time since we walked onto the outdoor Purdue pool deck together in August of '77. For two years, I believe we spent a lot of time in the same practice lane. Who can forget leaving Lambert, what a lousy pool, after morning practice during the coldest ever winter in 77-78 without any way to dry our hair, and hair sticking out of our hats freezing. Quite an experience for me as a kid from California. It was a lot of fun going through the experience with you, even if I only made it through two years as the slowest swimmer on the traveling team. I will miss coming back to campus and checking in with you on the pool deck occasionally. Knowing where the program came from, it is amazing what you have done with it. Congratulations on a great career and best wishes to you during your next stage.
Luke Ingram (2016-20)
Dan you have impacted my life definitely for the better. The way you view the world with empathy and respect is what I have picked up on and has helped me though, not only my career, but all other relationships I have made. The way you see the positives in each person and your ability to highlight what they are good at, for the betterment of the team, is something quite extraordinary to see in leadership. You never talked down to anyone, even when mistakes were made, and were still able to get your point across. You are the epitome of what a great leader, coach, and mentor looks like and I do my best to act and carry myself the same way in the Army/life. It was an honor to be able to serve under your tenure and I look forward to seeing how retirement treats you! God Bless and good luck on your next endeavor!
I was in the middle of a high school class when I got the call from Dan saying they were going to able to give me a preferred walk-on spot for the team. I was waiting on that call all week. When that call came in, I just got up and walked out of the classroom, not even letting anyone know. I came back in with the biggest smile on my face and felt as though I was on top of the world. I feel like I'm not the only person to feel that way after receiving that call from Dan. It is a memory I will always cherish.
Tom Kauble (1986-88)
Congratulations Coach Dan. Our summer in Wisconsin was a great time, other than the intense yardage some days! The discipline taught through the swimming team has carried with me through my entire career and personal life.
Heath McLaughlin (1993-97)
Dan was the single deciding factor in me choosing Purdue. After meeting him for just a couple hours, it was obvious he had the right attitude and the swimmers' best interests in mind, both in and out of the water. He had some great, hilarious speeches that I remember parts of over the years -- like how good the air is on Mount Mugumba, no dookie sticks, and no arm tackles. But Dan's leading by example, his showing all the student-athletes the value of a balanced lifestyle, and always doing the right thing even though nobody is looking…those will stick with me forever. Thanks Coach!
Dick Steinmetz (1953-57)
My swimming for Purdue preceded the swimming and coaching of Dan Ross. Dick "Pappy" Papenguth – the 1952 U.S. Women's Olympic swimming coach – was then the swimming coach and it's fitting the Dick Papenguth Fund helps to provide financial support for Purdue Swimming.
But I have kept in touch and visited Purdue Swimming to watch the successful coaching of Dan Ross. During that time, Dan had the "opportunity" to guide Purdue Swimming & Diving in our memorable Lambert Fieldhouse pool with the upgrade being a welcome reward.
Congratulations Dan. Your coaching recognitions are well deserved. And you can look back on the many grateful/successful Purdue graduates that competed for you when they learned to make it happen.
Joe Baer (1978-83)
In August of 1978, I started my freshman year at Purdue. I wanted to fully embrace college life and decided to attend The Island Fling at one of the fraternities. On my way over, I ran into a fellow underclassman swimmer named Dan Ross and he and I went to the gathering together. I really appreciated this at the time since I was new to the team. What I didn't realize at the time was that I had found my lifelong best friend. We roomed together the next year and until I graduated. College life suited us and our friendship grew exponentially during that time. I have known for many years, what most of you have also found out, Dan Ross is the BEST human being there is. Best Friend, Best Man (each for the other), Best Godfather to my oldest son, and the list goes on and on. Outside of my parents, he has been one of the most influential people in my life.
The first year we roomed together, Dan was a chemical engineering major like his father, but decided to change his major and become a coach. It was a difficult decision, but not one he ever regretted. Based on his storied career, it was one of the best decisions of his life. His career as the head coach of the Boilermaker swimming program is legendary. No one will ever do what he has done at Purdue; I am just glad that I was able to go along for the ride. I am so very proud of you. Congratulations on a Hall of Fame career!
Al Fager (1978-82)
Danny, first of all I'd like to congratulate you on your tenure as the Purdue Boilermakers' swimming head coach! Thirty-eight years is a record in itself. We got to know each other in the first three of your 42 years in the program. Swimming with you was a treasure as a Golden Nugget in Lambert Fieldhouse. We put in a lot of miles of hard work and I had a lot of great times! BDB, never imagined I'd meet anybody who could belch the whole alphabet in my life. May you and Sally enjoy this next phase! Al-O
PURDUE ALUMNI – WOMEN'S TEAM Christine Inman (2006-10)
Even being on the women's team, my Purdue experience would not have been the same without Dan Ross. The summers I spent training with him were definitely some of the most memorable for me. Anyone who has swam for him can tell you about how fun it was to have the weather report and inspirational "Dan-isms" on our daily workouts.
He has actually been encouraging and inspiring to me since I was an Age Grouper. Through my club team, I got to experience training in the old Lambert Fieldhouse pool, and there were a handful of times when the college swimmers here for the summer came to train outside with us in the Happy Hollow pool. Talk about some interesting workouts – outside with two lane lines in a 33 1/3-yard pool!
He has watched me grow up and was instrumental in me choosing to swim at Purdue, which has been one of the best and most rewarding experiences of my life. He was, and is, full of wisdom, encouragement and sound advice. I was a better swimmer and am a better person for having known him.
Katie (Hasbrook) Barbee (1995-99)
Dan Ross is a legend and we can all be proud that people think of him whenever they think about Purdue Swimming & Diving! Several memories of Dan stand out to me: co-ed practices, summer swimming with Boilermaker Aquatics, team dinners, and training trips (especially Hawaii). As a junior, Dan allowed me to train with the men's team twice a week when I had a class conflict and I really appreciated that opportunity. My freshman year, I remember Dan looking at three of us during a kick set in the outdoor Co-Rec pool and saying "Friends for life? It's a beautiful thing!". Dan taught us a lot about swimming, but he also taught us a lot about life! Dan, congratulations! I hope that you and Sally enjoy your well-deserved retirement! Thank you for all that you did for me as a student-athlete and as a person. And for representing Purdue as a phenomenal Boilermaker! I'm Ever Grateful!
Kendra (Hensler) Kitchel (1986-90)
I had the opportunity to swim on the women's team while Dan coached the men and had the opportunity to watch Dan coach while my daughter (Taite, 2015-19) swam for Purdue 25 years later. The common thread that stood out to me in both circumstances was Dan's commitment to all the swimmers and divers on the deck – men and women, Purdue, and the competition. Dan worked to ensure that each swimmer and diver had the opportunity and tools to grow as a person as well as an athlete. He invested a part of himself into each athlete in the Purdue program. Dan was a steadfast advocate for each student-athlete through each individual's journey at Purdue. Dan, enjoy your well-earned retirement!
Emily Fogle (2010-16)
Thank you, Dan, for always bringing Purdue passion, class, and joy to the pool deck for so many years. I felt safe and grateful during our combined practices (Saturday mornings and summertime) knowing you were coaching me. Not to mention the attention to detail which included the weather at the top of every workout! You are irreplaceable and your legacy will forever be etched in Purdue and the hearts of many. With much warmth, gratitude, and love.
Deb Thompson (1979-83) – Current Head Coach at Bethel College
Danny, I first knew you as a teammate then as our assistant coach. In my mind you were more like our head coach my senior year (1982-83). Up until then we (the women's team) had a separate coach. Doc was made the coach my senior year, but you were the one who spent the most time with us, trained us, corrected our stroke technique, supported us, and encouraged us. Thank you for that! After graduation, we all moved on and you stayed. I have coached at five different colleges over the years and you stayed true to the Black and Gold. That's amazing. Even though you are retiring, I know you will won't be far from the pool. It's in your blood. Congratulations!!
Kelsey Macaddino (2017-21)
While Dan was not my direct coach, he still had a profound impact on me during my years swimming for Purdue. I think that in and of itself says a lot about the kind of person Dan is. You didn't have to be a scoring member of his team for him to care about you and make you feel cared for. That is one of the things I appreciated the most about Dan; he made every person who was involved in the program feel like they were an important part of the team and he was happy to have them around. Swimming is a sport that can take a toll on your confidence when things aren't going well, and there were times during my time swimming for Purdue when I questioned whether I was helping the team at all. Every interaction that I had with Dan made me feel like I was, and for that I am incredibly grateful. I know he had this impact not only on me, but on countless others swimmers that passed through the program.
On a lighter note, I will always remember all of the laughs the team had trying to decipher Dan's typo-filled GroupMe messages, the debates between teammates while trying to decipher Dan's (self-declared) chicken-scratch handwritten practices, and the excitement of trying to solve the Purdue-themed crossword puzzles he put on the practice sheets during co-ed summer practices.
I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to be coached and mentored by Dan Ross. Dan is an amazing representation of what it means to be a Boilermaker, and he has made be very proud to be one.
Lizzy (Lyon) Tucker (2012-16)
Dan, thank you so much for the impact you have had on not only my life, but on the lives of countless others in the swim community. I so appreciated how you made Purdue Swimming & Diving feel like one big family. Thank you for taking me under your wing as a distance swimmer and encouraging me to be my best every day. I will never forget your kind words of support and fun demeanor on deck. The legacy you have left behind is incredible and your impact on the program will be felt for years to come. I am very grateful to have swam at Purdue during your tenure. You will be missed on deck but definitely deserve the best in retirement! Boiler Up!
Autumn (Sample) Kurtz (2000-04)
Dan you are one of the kind!! I felt fully seen in my summers swimming with you. You had a way of really getting me going and connecting – and I know I am just one in hundreds. I always felt really accepted by you as well. I feel so fortunate to have had the experience of being coached by you and swimming faster than ever under your guidance! It has been fun to connect where I can when life brings you near. Here's to connecting at The Masters next year in Augusta!
Becky (Wilson) Dreasher (1981-83)
My time on the team was a time of turmoil. I thought my swimming career was done after high school, but the women's coach encouraged me to give the team a try. She was gone before I made it back to campus. The next coach lasted only one season, but Danny was there, providing good humor and consistency. I remember him sharing his strategy for dealing with one of Coach Doc's sets of 50x50 in the few seconds between sendoffs: the song Roundabout by the band Yes. Lightness and endurance. I only made it through two seasons with the team, but during that time I was part of a family. Maybe it's ironic, but I'll most appreciate the grace Danny extended to me as I grappled with my decision to quit. I continue to coach masters, and hopefully I can pull it off with similar mix of good nature and toughness. Thanks for the memories, Coach.
Julie (O'Neill) Dussliere (1990-94)
Early in my first year at Purdue, the men's and women's teams were doing a joint long course outdoor workout in the old Co-Rec 50-meter pool. Dan was arranging lanes for the next set and asked me my stroke specialty. When I responded "freestyle," he said to pick another stroke. I hesitantly said "butterfly," not knowing what I might be getting myself into. Well, turns out I got myself into 10x200 fly on some interval that seemed insanely fast to me at the time. With encouragement and a few stroke tips from Dan, I successfully made it through the set and that workout helped me believe in myself and what I was capable of. I owe Dan a huge thank you for pushing me beyond the limits of what I thought I could do!
Erika (Whyte) Thompson (1995-99)
Thank you for all you've done for Purdue Swimming & Diving. Dan, you have impacted countless lives. The men's team admired you so much. I have never known a coach so beloved by his swimmers as you. You were like a hero to them. Enjoy the next chapter. Thank you for all you've done through the years.
Erica (Chandler) Cenci (2002-06)
Congrats, Dan! You helped to make my swim career complete! I loved swimming for you over the summer and also enjoyed being a part of the men's and women's swim & dive community. Appreciate all that you have done for the Boilermakers and Nick and I over the years! Wishing you all the best.
Taite Kitchel (2015-19)
Dan, I loved swimming under you!! My favorite memories were the guy/girl practices on Saturday mornings with the 20x50s fast set! I am so thankful for your time and commitment to Purdue – to the men's team, but also to the women's team! You always made a point to make both teams a family and I'll never forget that! Best wishes to you and Sally in the next chapter!!
Jackie Smailis (2015-19)
Dan Ross! The most positive guy on the pool deck! Always making everyone smile and laugh! Thank you so much for being such a big part of the women's team and being such an amazing human all the time! Congratulations on such an exciting and fulfilling career! I know you will be missed at Purdue.
Samantha Feulner (2010-14)
Dan was always a warm, enthusiastic presence on deck that could make me laugh during even the hardest practices. I always looked forward to the co-ed practices, even if it meant having to work to decipher his handwriting and acronyms. He also served as a great example of a husband and father. I am happy to call his son, Matt, one of my close friends and I'm grateful to have grown closer to the Ross Family post-graduation. Dan's character will be a tough void to fill, but I wish him a wonderful retirement.
Emily Converse (2016-21)
I am so grateful to have been coached by Dan! I had a lot of practices where I swam with the men due to conflicts with classes and he was always so welcoming. I have many memories of Dan. One of my favorites was during my senior year. I swam the mile at the Purdue Invite. It was my first mile since my sophomore year due to multiple surgeries. Dan was one of the first people to hug me and congratulate me on the progress I had made. Dan is definitely more than a coach to the Purdue Swim & Dive community. Dan has positively impacted his swimmers and everyone around him. Thank you for everything!
Melanie Bromwich (1996-2000)
I swam on the women's team but was lucky to have contact with Dan on a daily basis when the men came in for their practice as we finished our practice. Dan was an amazing coach and an amazing human being. He deeply cared not only for his swimmers but the swimmers on the women's team as well. Congrats on a wonderful career!
Claire (Williamson) Balfour (1984-88)
It was an honor and a privilege to swim at Purdue with you! I miss the atmosphere and the friendships we all made together! Blessing and good wishes as you retire and find time to enjoy life outside the swimming pool.
Catherine (Niehaus) Lawless (1986-88)
Coach Danny, heartfelt congratulations on your amazing career with Purdue Swimming. I have so many lifetime memories of my time on the swim team at Purdue with you, coach Kathie Wickstrand and coach Cathy Wright-Eger. The phrase that most sticks in my mind when I think of Coach Dan is from the long, long, bus trip to Texas and back in 1987. Coach Danny cheerfully saying at each stop – Let's take it to go Boilers. ;) Love you and thank you for all you've done.
Colleen Campbell (1987-89)
Coach Ross was one of the favorite coaches I have ever swam for. When our coach left the day we reported to campus in 1987, my teammates and I were devastated. Coach Ross was so great to us and really helped with the adjustment. I spent that summer swimming at Badger Pool in Madison for Danny and it was one of the most memorable summers of my life. We worked hard, swam fast and had fun. Thinking about my time swimming for Coach Ross always puts a smile on my face. I really wish he would have been my coach for the rest of the time at Purdue.
Stacie (Lesneski) Smith (2005-08)
I had the honor of swimming for Dan during the summers of 2006 and 2007 as a member of Boilermaker Aquatics. Not only did I have some great long-course success swimming under him, but he was a wicked fun coach and I looked forward to every workout. I learned so much from him and have so much respect for him – he is truly a class act. I wish I could have swam for him more than just two short summers, but I am grateful for the wisdom he shared, kindness and sense of humor. Wishing Dan and his family the best life has to offer in whatever his next adventures will be.
Jill (Groff) Regan (1986-90)
Thank you Dan for all the encouragement, mentorship and support you provided over the years. I'll never forget those early-morning workouts with the guys or spending the summer in Madison. Definitely memories of a lifetime. So happy for you and Sally as you begin your retirement. Good luck! Boiler Up!
Ariel (Martin) Hulme (2007-11)
Thank you for always being a great support system for anyone who has been with Purdue Swim & Dive throughout the years. I always appreciate how much you love Purdue. Boiler Up!
Jen (Merte) Freiman (2003-07)
I have so many great memories from summers at Purdue and I'm forever grateful for the opportunity to train with you. Congratulations on a remarkable career and enjoy your well-earned retirement!
Julie Watts (1985-89)
Congratulations Dan on such an amazing career. I am honored to be a small part of it. Great memories that will last a lifetime for me and a big thank you to you for making it possible. Best wishes!
Paula (Wilczek) Klipsch (1983-87)
My recruiting trip to Purdue was in the early fall of 1982, my senior year at Noblesville High School. I was shown around the facilities and campus and knew I was at "home." I think I may have been one of his first recruits?? Anyways, Danny offered me a full ride to Purdue and I couldn't sign fast enough.
Over the four years at Purdue, one of the craziest memories I have under Danny's coaching tenure was my sophomore year when both the men's and women's teams DROVE (in a caravan of vans) from Purdue to San Antonio to spend about 10 days of training over Christmas break. Several hundred hours later, we arrived in Texas. Welp, the weather turned too cold to train outside for a few days, so some of us decided to cross the U.S. border into Mexico to shop and explore. Naturally, Danny wasn't too happy with all of us since inside our blankets was booze bought in Mexico to take back to our motel. When we all crossed the border safely (without passports and about 20 of us), there was Danny waiting to kick our butts and make sure we arrived back at the motel safely. Another evening or two later…FBI, INS and the rest of the Texas Rangers raided our hotel because someone was helping immigrants cross over into the States with fake IDs. I've never seen so many paddy wagons in my life!
Danny, I'm really proud of everything that you have done to further the Purdue swimming program. It's been a stellar career! I will forever be grateful to you for giving me the opportunity to become a Boilermaker. It's truly changed my life! Enjoy your retirement, Danny, but try not to drive Sally too crazy. PURDUE ALUMNI – DIVERS Kirk Martin (1988-91)
I couldn't have asked for a better head coach than Dan! As a diver, we had less contact with him than the swimming competitors did – but he always made sure that all of us knew we were on the same team! One of the things that I loved, loved, LOVED about Purdue Swimming was the fact that – outside of the pool – there was no discernable difference between the swimmers and divers. We were all friends – we all went to the same parties, hung out together, rented apartments with each other, and never questioned the fact that we were teammates. I very much know that this was not the case at other schools. This atmosphere 100% comes back to Dan and the way he coached his teams. I was very fortunate to be part of his early career as the Purdue head coach. I've been thrilled to see how long it has lasted and the great success it has generated! Dan is an outstanding coach, and a first-class human being! Purdue Swimming will miss him!
Emily (Bretscher) Pfeiffer (2018-22)
Dan Ross never wavers in his joy and has a way of making you feel so welcomed and loved. When I was on the diving team at Purdue, I had another teammate named Emily. Every time he saw us, he would call us M&M. Never failing to check in and see how we were doing, even when the other M was not there.
My husband is from West Lafayette so we were back home over Christmas to visit his family. One day we went to the grocery store and I turn around to see Dan Ross with a smile on his face, ready to give me a hug. This is the man Dan Ross is. He welcomes all with open arms and has a way of making people feel so valued and loved. His joy is contagious and I am so grateful that I was on the diving team while he was there coaching. He is definitely one of a kind. Thank you, Dan, for all you have done and for the way you made Purdue Swim & Dive feel like a family!
Ben Bramley (2018-22)
As a diver, I will never forget my recruiting trip when Dan told me he would be like an uncle to me. At the time, I wasn't sure what this meant, but I quickly realized that he was one of the most caring and supportive coaches I had ever met. Over the years, Dan has been a constant source of encouragement, always there to provide guidance and support when I needed it most.
One of my fondest memories of Dan was during my junior year at Big Tens. I had a disappointing first day, and I was feeling down about my performance. I turned to Dan for a pep talk, and while he couldn't offer much technical advice, he gave me the confidence I needed to get back in the pool and perform at my best.
I'm so grateful for the support Dan offered to myself and others, and will always be proud to have had him as a coach.
MacKenzie Tweardy (2011-16)
Your impact in the swimming (and diving!) community is immeasurable.
Still, to this day, my favorite swim and dive memory was during the fall 2015 reunion. There had to be at least 75 of us in a room together and between all of us, our collegiate careers spanned decades. That was the day I realized the magnitude of your impact. Every person in that room except for one had been coached by you – and that one outlier swam with you.
To have a connection with strangers of "we went to a large university with of tens of thousands of students decades apart" will never be as meaningful as the connection I share with the decades of swimmers and divers of "we were part of the Dan Ross team." It's hard to imagine coming back to campus to visit and not seeing you on deck. It won't be the same without your booming voice, non-sensical motivating encouragement, giant smile and infectious attitude.
Congrats on an incredible career, Dan. I wish you the best in whatever comes next while enjoying more time with Sally and your boys! COACHING COLLEAGUES Tim Kahms – Purdue Class of 1983, Son of Former Purdue Head Coach Doc Kahms
Congrats on a successful coaching career. Having been there from the beginning as a fellow student and friend, being a part of the coaching fraternity in Lafayette for a bit, and also having watched as Dad (Doc Kahms) coached you both as a swimmer, mentored you as an assistant, and then seeing you go on to replace him in leading Purdue Swimming, all I can say is wow...what a great ride you've had Dan.
Dad had a great sense of pride in his relationship with you and I'm sure would be the first to congratulate you as you have so successfully completed your Boilermaker journey and step away from the school and program that he so dearly loved and also dedicated his entire career to. I imagine he's raised a beer (or maybe two along with a fish filet) in salute to you. He loved you and would be so happy for both you and Sally.
As for me, well...congrats again. It's a joy to call you a friend. All the best to you as you step into whatever is next for you and Sally. May God bless you both richly in this next phase of life. Boiler Up!
Jim Mountjoy – Purdue Diving Coach from 1994-2001
"I Believe" I officially met Dan in 1985. We didn't see each other again until 1994 when he and Cathy Wright-Eger interviewed me for the diving coach position at Purdue.
At some point during the six-plus hour interview, Dan looked at me and said, "I can't call you James, your name is Jim." That pretty much sealed the deal and started my seven-year coaching career (as Jim) at Purdue. It also began a mentor/friendship that I will cherish all my days.
Who I am as a man, as a father and as a coach/leader now, is in big part, due to watching and trying my very best to emulate Dan Ross. The stories you will hear by the hundreds are all heartfelt and true about a man that has touched so many lives both in the pool and out. I have enough that I could write a book, but one moment in time has always stood out to me as defining who Dan Ross is.
During what I remember to be the beginning of the 1995-96 season, Dan, Cathy and I held our yearly "meet the team" event in the VIP room of Mackey Arena. Everyone said a few words and then Dan came to the lectern to give his now famous "I Believe" talk.
If you have never heard Dan speak on his "this – not that" list of life, I highly recommend it. The items included in it were at times comical and at times very serious. The list itself isn't the thing that stands out the most though – what made it important was how as he delivered it, as though he was speaking directly to each and every person in that room. This is what makes Dan the admired and beloved individual that he is.
Dan, in his very thoughtful and purposeful way was showing each of us not just who he was and what he believed, but more importantly, what it meant to be a part of the team, a part of the Purdue family, and by extension, his family. This is what separates Dan from the multitude of amazing coaches and people I have met in my life. Dan believed in ALL of US. He wasn't just in it for the faster swims and getting the wins, he was in it to make us all better human beings. He truly cared about the individual and demonstrated it every single day in the way he coached and treated us all.
Dan Ross "Believed" in all of us, even with all our faults and foibles, and we are all much better athletes, coaches, mothers, fathers and more importantly, people, because of the impact he has made in our lives. I know that I, for one, am very thankful for his belief in me on that day in 1994 and for all the days since.
Nathan Lavery – Head Coach at Drexel University
I started coaching at Villanova in 2012 and for a few years we were on the same deck with Purdue at our midseason invite. Dan always included me in conversations that we both happened to be around on that deck. As a young coach that had reached out to "higher up" coaches and received no response (or was intentionally left out of conversations at times), what Dan did made an impact.
A number of years later I was around Dan at the CSCAA Convention in 2018 and was at dinner in a restaurant one night with a large group he happened to be in. I watched as he did the exact same thing, including young coaches and being a wonderful person to everyone around him. His love for Purdue and people shining through everything as always. Things like that keep young coaches going.
Thank you, Dan. The sport is better for having had you in it and that's the highest achievement any of us can attain within it.
Bill Roberts – Head Coach at the U.S. Naval Academy
Since the day I became a collegiate coach, you have provided an example second to none on how to do it the right way. Purdue University is lucky to have a person like you leading its young men and women. I have no doubt your impact and influence will extend well past 2023.
It has been an honor to share the pool deck with you and wish you the very best as you enjoy a well-deserved retirement. And if you are ever in the Baltimore/DV area, you have a standing invitation to swing over to take the jets skis out on the Chesapeake Bay. Very respectfully.
Jeanne Fleck – Head Coach at Fresno State
Dan's love and passion for swimming, the athletes and the coaches is second to none. For the 35 years I have known Dan, he always makes me smile. He always says how happy he is to see you and always has a great story to tell you. Thank you for helping so many and thank you for sharing your joy of PHISH and FOOD with all of us.
Matt Gianiodis – Head Coach at Michigan State
In November of 2016, the Big Ten had a special event in Indianapolis. The B1G All-Star Swim Team vs. the USA Swimming National Team. Of all the great coaches representing the Big Ten that day, it was Coach Ross who gave the pre-meet talk to the team. Bear in mind we had a coach who won a national championship in that group yet that was respect he had from his peers.
When I was promoted from assistant to head coach at Michigan State, the first call I made was to Coach Ross to ask him advice on what I should do to make it work. In short, I wanted my program to be like his program. I always admired Coach Ross. He always did what was the best for his team, his university and the Big Ten Conference. He mentored hundreds of swimmers and divers, as well as coaches, who went on to amazing careers.
In 2003, Coach offered me a job. Not accepting the offer is the worst decision I ever made. He is a great friend and a true Boilermaker. I have long admired Purdue and I am very happy for Coach Ross and his family.
Ian Walsh – Head Coach at Marshall University
Although our paths crossed a bit later in Dan's coaching journey, it was such a treat to watch his coaching style and presence alongside his student-athletes. His servant leadership style and humbleness stood out to me. It has reframed how I look at my role as a college coach and the impact we can make in these student-athletes' lives. It will not be WHAT he did at Purdue that will be remembered for, but HOW he did it. That will be his legacy.
Tanner Barton – Head Coach at John Carroll University; Former Head Coach at Cleveland State & Anderson University
I've said it before and I'll say it again… We had the best mentoring group in the CSCAA! I am grateful for your guidance and support. You prove that a coach can be wholly invested in family while still making a difference in the lives of student-athletes. Enjoy this next phase of life… You deserve it, Dan!
Alex Jerden – Purdue Assistant Coach 2019-23; Purdue Head Coach 2023-Present
First time I officially met Dan was during the weekend of Early Bird 2019 at Harry's. He invited the entire coaching staffs at the meet to join him there for wings and a drink on his dime. A great feel-good memory watching him delight in being a giver to his community and in making his sport better. My entire time in the Purdue coaching community has been punctuated by Dan's hospitality, his complimentary nature, and the way in which he used food to bring people together. Been a pleasure to be guided by Dan during my time on staff and I will always carry lessons from him on my coaching journey. FORMER/CURRENT STUDENT MANAGERS Ben Moritz (2002-07)
I began my freshman year in the fall of 2002 and began looking for opportunities to get involved around campus. Having swam for 12 years, but not being quite fast enough for division one, I sought out Coach Ross to ask about being a manager. Thankfully, he gave me a chance. That opportunity shaped the rest of my time at Purdue and led to many great memories, friendships, and experiences. Thanks Dan for letting me be a part of the team and getting to be part of a pretty awesome and unique college experience!
Phillip Phan (2016-20)
In 2016, I emailed Dan Ross three times about becoming the manager on the swim team since I've swam my entire life up until this point. While my first two emails went unanswered, I was going to give up after my third attempt. He replied to me on my last attempt that fall, "come and see me." Little did I know, those four words would impact my entire college experience.
Dan Ross, thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to manage one of the best swim and dive programs in the nation and learning from one of the best NCAA coaches in swimming history. Throughout those four years of managing, you were a great mentor to me as well, especially when I was deciding which job offer to take after college. You always put the team's interest first and you taught us many life lessons outside of the pool. You have left such a positive impact on many students' and people's lives. I am fortunate I got to be a part of the swim and dive team as a manager under your guidance. My best memories from Purdue are being a manager of the swim team, memories I wouldn't have if you hadn't sent that four-word email. Congratulations on a legendary career, and I wish you nothing but the absolute in your retirement!
I wanted to share the email story at the senior banquet in 2020, but unfortunately it ended up being cancelled due to the pandemic. Dan emailed me back when the team was practicing at Happy Hollow Pool when the aquatic center was being renovated. So it was a little tricky hunting him down! Looking back on it now, it was just a fun memory about how I got involved with the swim program and a valuable lesson on not letting obstacles get in the way of your goals and ambitions.
Greg Franzen (2008-12)
To put it simply, Dan Ross is THE most Purdue person I have ever had the benefit of meeting. Dan has been sharing and furthering the Purdue difference for 38-plus years and has been an excellent ambassador of all that makes Purdue great. Dan is kind, funny, loyal, and a man of high integrity – all characteristics that have made him a great coach respected by all of his peers. He has earned any type of retirement he wants but hopefully he stays connected to Purdue so future classes can have the benefit of experiencing how Purdue a person can be.
Kaitlyn Sinclair (2021-Present)
I, like many others, have felt the lasting positive impact that is Dan Ross on my life. I became the manager for the Purdue Men's Swim Team for the start of the 2021-2022 season. Dan had no idea who I was when I emailed him to ask about the position and neither of us had any idea what was to come in my time as manager alongside a head coach as remarkable as Dan.
I have had the pleasure to watch Dan interact with countless athletes, parents, coaches, and officials throughout the swimming community. It seems like everyone knows Dan and I know for a fact everyone loves Dan. At Dan's last NCAAs this year, I saw what seemed like every coach in NCAA Swimming come up to Dan and tell him congratulations on his career. Someone who has that many friends in the swimming world is obviously someone special.
Dan is the kind of coach that will drive an hour and 15 minutes to a morning practice (at 5:30am) just to meet one of his new commits. Dan is the kind of coach who says things for the sole purpose of making you smile. Dan is the kind of coach who loves and cares for his athletes and staff like they are his own.
Dan is proud to claim that he has been the son of a Purdue grad for almost 64 years, and I am proud to claim that I have been a friend of Dan Ross for almost 3 years. Being a part of the Boilermaker Swimming family at the same time as Dan Ross has been the pleasure of my life. Thank you, Dan.
Colleen O'Toole (2022-Present)
There are a lot of things I could say about Dan. I have interacted with Dan since my freshman year when I was a lifeguard at the Aquatic Center working during the men's swim practice time. He would come over and ask me questions about little things in my day or basic things about me. But before he walked away, he would always give me a fist bump. Through that connection, I was able to begin working with the team in February 2022 during the Big Ten Championships that Purdue hosted. After helping film for that meet, I knew I wanted to work with the team in the upcoming season. I reached out to Dan and Alex and they had me come into practice to shadow and see how everything runs.
Once the season started this year, Dan continued to impact my life. Being a part of the team, I was able to see how much Dan is Purdue Swimming. At all of the practices, meetings, meets and dinners, Dan made me feel like I was a member of his family. I knew that he cared about me and he always made it known that I was valued in his eyes. I know that leaving swimming behind will be hard for him but I know that he will succeed in his retirement. Dan, I am praying for you! I love you!
Katie Smith (2019-Present)
Dan Ross never fails to put a smile on anyone's face. Dan goes out of his way to make sure everyone on the pool deck (athlete or staff) feels welcome and a part of the Purdue Swim & Dive family. I will miss seeing Dan on deck and the joy that he brings to everyone. Whether that's just his silly noises he makes as you're walking past him, his incredible words of advice, or even just writing the daily weather report at the top of each workout. Dan, I'll miss you dearly!!
Graham Seaver (2022-Present)
Dan has been an incredible coach, leader, and role model for so many. Personally, his love for the team and incredible positive energy has taught me so much in such a short time. It's been a pleasure to get to be a part of the team with him. I wish him the best in retirement and hope he knows the love we all have for him! CURRENT STUDENT-ATHLETES Nick Sherman (2018-23)
Dan's impact on not only my life but the hundreds of student-athletes is profound. He found a way to put us through hell in the pool, find success, and teach us how to be better men and women all at once. A combination rarely found. Plus, his phrases and bad texting have provided so many laughs for my friends and I.
He has helped shape me into the person I am today through his love and support during the last five years. The Morgan J. Burke Aquatic Center pool deck will miss him dearly but there is no better definition of a lifelong Boilermaker! Thank you for sharing your passion with all of us!
Blake Ratliff (2019-Present)
The first time we ever spoke was on the phone during my senior year of high school. While we certainly discussed swimming, the majority of our conversation centered on The Masters and Tiger Woods' recent victory. I couldn't have imagined a better first impression.
The first time we met in person was during my freshman year's BGR week, right before the Boilers Back in Action event in Holloway. You greeted me with a smile and told me, "I'm glad to have you here." I knew you meant it.
I felt that same warm, welcoming at every single practice and competition. After my first ever meet, the Black & Gold Intrasquad, you told me, "You were a Boilermaker today," and I've held onto that ever since. You taught me that being a Boilermaker meant to be a fierce competitor, a strong leader, a compassionate teammate, and a well-mannered human being. Because of you, I will always strive to be a Boilermaker. Thank you, Coach Dan.
Kendra Bowen (2019-Present)
I have loved seeing Dan's smile on deck every day no matter what kind of day he was having. He always said hi to us as we left practice, asked how practice was, or told us to have a great day. I will definitely miss his presence next year, he always puts a smile on my face. I also love all of his iconic Hawaiian shirts!
Andrew Witty (2020-Present)
Dan is and was a walking highlight reel. Every day he comes on deck and does something that can only be described as "Dan like" and it just makes you feel at home. No matter what's going on in your life, it's difficult not to at least smirk when he's around. Further, Dan made sure to never stop sharing his vast life experiences and what he's learned from them in order to make us better men, fathers, sons, siblings, etc. as he would tell us.
His time on deck has had an indescribable impact on who I am and who I am still trying to be every day. My ears opened wider than any other time when I heard Dan beginning one of his speeches because I knew I would learn something new about how to be a better man every single time. I cannot wait to see how Dan enjoys his long-deserved retirement and to continue to follow his uniquely personable Instagram posts to keep us informed. The only accurate way to describe Dan Ross is as a national treasure who leaves a positive impact on every human he meets. And you can't tell me there's anything better than that.
Ethan Shaw (2020-Present)
Dan was instrumental in my transition from high school to college, both as a student-athlete and a person. I will always remember and appreciate his leadership and guidance during a very uncertain COVID season (in 2020-21). The values that he instilled in us went far beyond the pool and will last a lifetime. To me, his storied career was based on one guiding principle: love your teammates. If you love and embrace your teammates, the success will come, and it sure did. Dan, thank you for everything you have done for this program. Your impact will forever change this program for the better. All the best in retirement!
Aaron Frollo (2020-Present)
When I first got to Purdue a few years ago, I wasn't entirely sure that I was going to fit in. I'm a pretty shy person, and I had panic attacks on more than one occasion during my first few weeks here. I was also in a weird position with swimming since I had minimal interactions with Dan before coming to Purdue, most of my contact being with the assistant coach who had left that summer.
My trepidations almost immediately dissipated upon meeting Dan for the first time. He immediately welcomed me into the fold, and despite him being the only coach we had that year, he did a great job at making me feel like a valued member of the team. He talks a lot about this being a family, and I didn't really understand that until I got to experience it for myself. My initial fears of college life were quickly dissipated by Dan and the culture that he's brought to Purdue Swimming. I could not be happier with my choice to come represent his university.
As Dan prepares for retirement, I want to express my gratitude for the impact he has had on my life as a student-athlete at Purdue. Swimming for him has been an honor, and I am forever grateful for the sense of belonging and purpose he instilled within me as a small, very nervous college freshman. Thank you, Dan, and congratulations on your retirement.
Lindsay Turner (2019-23)
I remember taking a photo with Coach Dan on my recruiting trip back in 2018. He was friends with my head coach back in Carlsbad, California. Later that summer, I spoke with him at Summer Juniors and he was so kind and encouraging even though he barely knew me. Over the course of my four years at Purdue, he constantly asked questions about my flying career and was so invested in all of my endeavors. I will forever appreciate Dan's kindness and enthusiasm when it comes to everything he does.
Leanna Wall (2019-23)
Dan, throughout my time here at Purdue, you have made such a positive impact on my life. Every time I pass you at the pool, you always smile and ask how I'm doing. Small interactions like these make a HUGE difference! I appreciate everything you have done for me and this team. I wish you the best in retirement!!! -Leanna 3
Ana Rojas (2022-Present)
Dan made me feel a part of the team even as a freshman who was redshirting. He always put a smile on my face and would leave me feeling optimistic about my future as a Boilermaker, both in and out of the pool. I will miss his warmth and big heart. He always reminded the team to remember why we started to love swimming. To remember why we got up in the morning and to remember why we would continue to show up for one another. Dan never let us forget the importance of a team. Even within my few encounters with Dan, he made a lasting impact on me.
Raymond Whittaker (2022-Present)
Coach Dan spoke to me over the phone this year just before Big Tens while in the hospital with his mother. He took time out of his day to speak to me about my season and give me encouragement after I was not recognized as a part of the conference roster. His dedication to myself and the team even when he was dealing with incredibly important family matters inspired me. It pushes me to be a better teammate and person every day.
Dylan Burau (2022-Present)
Even though it was only for a year, Dan taught me how to fall in love with swimming again and remember why I fell in love with swimming. He also taught me that working with other people was so important in not only my own success but the success of everyone around you. These lessons will carry on with me for the rest of my life. I will be able to apply them in every aspect of my life and for that I am eternally grateful. Thank you, Dan.
Andy Kelly (2022-Present)
I only experienced Dan's leadership for one season, however he profoundly affected all of us freshmen. I'm very grateful to have been coached by Dan. While it's sad to see Coach Dan retire, having gratitude for his time here outweighs any tears. I think what I will be grateful for the most is his authenticity. As a team, we bought-in on Dan's message and coaching in such a way that we all swim for him. It is special to have a collective group of individuals operating as one unit for one purpose.
Many people share the same sentiment in which we thought of Dan as a father figure. The ability to relate to us and understand exactly how we were feeling was impactful for all us. Dan has unconditional love for the sport and for us swimmers. The impact he has had on generations of young men is something that few great souls can achieve. My favorite memories of Dan are when he would give speeches before practice to all of us. His ability to understand how any of us were feeling, and to give advice on our hardships is something I will always be grateful for.
Jenna Sonnenberg (2020-Present)
Every fist bump after practice brightened my day and put a smile on my face. Thank you, Dan, for being so kind, caring, and welcoming to me and everyone around you.
Madeline Greaves (2021-Present)
I will never forget every time I walked on the pool deck or past Dan – the peace signs that we exchanged or the sheeeeww noises. They made my day every time!
Reagan Mattice (2022-Present)
Dan was always a positive presence on deck, cheering on not only the men's team but the women's team, too. His energy, kindness and peace signs will be missed greatly.
Kate Saczawa (2020-Present)
Thank you for always making Purdue feel like a home away from home! PARENTS OF BOILERMAKERS Tim & Nancy Smith – Parents of Jack Smith (2019-2023)
As parents of a college athlete during the pandemic, we watched from afar as our son and the team navigated uncertain times. Dan was a steady rudder for the young men and they all came out the other side much closer and stronger than ever. We are so grateful for Dan's leadership, mentorship and friendship with our son. We could not have asked for a better coach for him. Thank you, Dan. You have left a huge, positive imprint on Jack and for that we will be eternally thankful. Enjoy your retirement with Sally and your boys.
Rob Lawrence & Julie Fream – Parents of Ryan Lawrence (2017-21)
We were blessed to have Ryan guided by great coaches throughout his career. Dan you are at the top of that mountain. Your wisdom reached beyond swimming and helped set a tone for how Ryan and his teammates found balance between sports, academics, and faith in each other. This was especially true of the classes that navigated the unprecedented impact of a global pandemic. I feel like Ryan, and each member of the team, was a part of your extended family. That's the hallmark of a great coach, and a great man. Thank you for everything.
I only wish we could have celebrated more time with Dan and the team during our years at Purdue. COVID cut that short, but because of Dan and our experience watching Ryan as part of a great team, we are now forever Boilermakers! Boiler Up!
Patrick Samuels – Father of Brady Samuels (2021-Present)
I can't begin to explain how grateful our family is for Dan. Although our son only had him for two years, he has had a major impact in his development, not only as an athlete, but as a young man. Dan offers so much more than just coaching swimming, he coaches life. Dan's extended career at Purdue demonstrates an uncommon loyalty seldom seen. He has touched the lives of hundreds of student athletes and we could not be more grateful that he touched ours. We wish Dan all the best in his much-deserved retirement. Forever a fellow Boilermaker! We love you Coach!
Chris & Michele Modglin – Parents of Coleman Modglin (2020-Present)
Dan, we cannot thank you enough for the positive impact you have had on our son, Coleman. One of the most meaningful things you did before he started his freshman year at Purdue was tell us that you have him now and you are going to take good care of him. You held true to that promise and for that we are so grateful. We began praying for Coleman before he was born. One of our longtime prayers was that he would have people in his life who would be able to help him grow and be a positive influence on him. You are an answer to both of those prayers! At the end of the day, it's the Purdue Swimming & Diving family that will matter most. Not times or standings. Thanks for your loving care of the family for 40-plus years. You are a legend, my friend. Blessings to you as you begin the next season of your life. Proudly Purdue.
Rob, Cheryl & Emily McIlrath (2009-13)
The McIlrath family would just like to wish Coach Ross all the best in this new chapter of your life. The memories of all who not only swam for you but know you personally is unmeasurable. To have impacted and touched so many lives has to be so rewarding. Best wishes and may God bless you.
Bill & Tara Blair – Parents of Wyatt Blair (2022-Present)
Congratulations Coach on a great career. We wish you all the best in your retirement. We feel so blessed that our son was able to be coached by you.
Kristina Zerpa – Mother of Ryan Zerpa (2021-Present)
Thank you Coach Ross for all you have done for Ryan and for all the men on this team for so many years! I will miss seeing you get excited and animated on the pool deck during big meets!
Debbie Mullen – Mother of John Mullen (2004-08)
Thank you for being a great coach and leader. You will be missed! SPECIAL CONTRIBUTIONS David Ross – Dan's Older Brother
My memories of Danny Ross (Danny, not Dan) are those of an older brother. I was an on-again-off-again "teammate" at Hammond Hills Pool in North Augusta (diving and a fill-in on a swimming relay), but mainly spent my time there in the lifeguard tower. My sister and I got dragged around to more swim meets in high school than we care to remember. Boring!?!
I read the memory from Joe Bear above and it reminded me of the time that Joe and Danny visited our apartment at the University of Georgia when I was in graduate school. We spent our meager grad student food budget on burgers and chips for Joe and Danny. When that was gone, Joe and Danny began digging through the fridge and cupboard for hot dogs, baked beans, green beans, corn, BBQ sauce packets, the last hot dog bun and all the ketchup. In two hours, it was like a herd of army ants had mowed through our kitchen. We had no idea how much food college swimmers could eat!
We visited Danny and Sally in West Lafayette very early in his coaching career. He took a phone call and returned saying, "well, you are looking at the WORST recruiter in sports!" Ten minutes later, ending another call, "well, you are looking at the GREATEST recruiter in sports!" Our Dad went to Purdue and we all grew up with Boilermaker sweatshirts (uh, what's a Boilermaker?). Danny had his heart set on going there, too. He "walked" onto the swim team, made the traveling team next year, finally made the Big Ten team and ended up coaching for you guys. Now, all these years later, I am proud of my little brother's perseverance, patience and stick-to-itiveness. But more than anything Purdue has been fortunate to have such a good human in its pool for so long.
Haley Agnew – Purdue Alumna & Daughter of Former Purdue Assistant Coach J. Agnew
My dad was a part of the Purdue Swimming & Diving coaching staff for 11 years of my life. During that time, and even after my Dad moved into a head coaching role at Ball State, we got to be a part of the Purdue Swimming & Diving family. Some of my greatest memories growing up were spent with my dad and Dan on the pool deck and traveling to other cities for swim meets. Dan facilitated an environment where everyone's families were welcomed into the team and I am so thankful for that.
Dan set a great example of a "Coach Dad" and always let his kids be involved with the team while supporting their individual passions. When my Dad and the rest of my family moved away, I was just starting my first year at Purdue. Dan always let me know that he was there for me if I needed anything. I was so thankful for that support during a huge period of change and uncertainty in life. I am beyond thankful for the impact Dan had on my family and me. Without him taking a chance on my Dad so long ago, I wouldn't be the diehard Boilermaker that I am today. Congratulations Dan on an incredible career and your retirement! Boiler Up!
Dale Banghart – Purdue Alumnus & Fellow Owen Hall Resident
Dan probably doesn't remember me but we both lived on the third floor of Owen Hall (northeast suite) at Purdue. Amazing how time flies and you're able to stay at Purdue since! I'm a pilot for American Airlines who retires on my 65th birthday next year. Congratulations.
Ben Turner – Purdue Swimming & Diving Communications Director (2010-Present)
Dan is always a joy to be around, like most everyone I have met associated with Purdue Swimming & Diving over the last dozen years. As Dan decided the time had come to call it a career after 40-plus years at Purdue, I enjoyed writing his career recap and mini tribute to make the news public while recognizing a loyal Boilermaker. I wrote it well past midnight in a hotel room 600 miles from campus, as is often the case in February and March while I'm on the road with Purdue Baseball.
I had witnessed firsthand what he meant to everyone at the pool and the swimming community. I knew we needed to give people the opportunity to contribute their memories and words of thanks about Dan. This endeavor was launched and compiling all of these tributes has also been quite enjoyable as well as emotional. Thanks to everyone that took the time to contribute in some fashion.
Dan is beloved by so many and is so very authentic. When things were going sideways in my life in a big way after my dad died late in the summer of 2019, Dan was the coach at Purdue who took the time to talk to me in a real fashion like we were friends. Commiserating with me about the grief and hopelessness I was mired in at the time. I'll never forget that. Thank you, Dan. All the best in retirement. COMMENTS COMPILED FROM SOCIAL MEDIA David Hansen (1983-87)
Dan is our northern star, unchanging, a light in the darkness. When all else in life seems hopeless, we remember "Dan is still at Purdue" and know that everything is going to be alright.
Larry Becker (1994-98)
Congrats, Dan! It goes without saying you impacted and influenced so many lives. Wishing you all the best with your retirement endeavors!
Chris Bals (2014-18)
I've never met a coach who cared so deeply for every one of his swimmers. Dan Ross made a tremendous impact on so many, myself included. Here's to a happy retirement.
Adam Johnston (2012-16)
I'll always remember when Dan came to my home and spoke to my mom and dad. He described what it was like to be a boilermaker, and how his goal would be to make me the best version of myself in and out of the pool. This was a major reason for me going to Purdue. Best wishes, Dan!
Joe Cifelli (2015-19)
Congratulations on a legendary run!! Thankful to have been on your team.
Jeff Wunderlich (1989-92)
Boiler Up! Such an amazing accomplishment!! Need to find a special place to honor Coach!!
Corey Bandura (2009-13)
Congrats Dan! You are a great coach and an even better person. Thank you for everything!
Mark Kujawski (1995-99)
Congrats Dan!!! Wishing you all the best in retirement! You'll always be the center of the Purdue Swimming family.
Andrew Alders (2020-Present)
Nobody could compare to Coach Dan, Congratulations!
Lisa (Dolansky) Conner (1999-03)
Thank you for everything you have given to Purdue! It was a privilege to swim with you each summer. Best wishes on your retirement!
Cathy (Ackerman) Steiner (1985-89)
Wow! What a career! I think I've seen your career from the very beginning, all the way back to Junior Nationals in Brown Deer, Wisconsin in 1983. Dan Ross is one of the best! Congratulations!
Erin (Mertz) Kastner (2009-11)
He was so fun to be around! Supported the divers just as much as the swimmers. Loved his encouragement and dedication to the team. He will be missed but deserves a good retirement.
Angie (Troester) Trujillo (1994-98)
Congrats Dan! Your positive impact on all is one that stands the test of time. Best of wishes to you on your retirement!
Alex (Todd) Martinez (2011-15)
You are a legend at Purdue and have done so much over the years!
Nora (Brolsma) Farrell (2009-13)
Congratulations Dan! You've have had a positive impact on many!
Gyöngyvér Lakos (1997-2001)
Thank you Dan! So lucky I got to know you!
Deanna Hrosik – Mother of Ryan Hrosik (2018-22)
No words can express our love and appreciation for what Dan Ross means to our family. Enjoy your retirement Coach. You definitely deserve it.
Catherine Shaw – Mother of Ethan Shaw (2020-Present)
It has been an absolute privilege, honor and a blessing for our son to have you as his head coach for the last three years. You truly care about all of the athletes as men and have set an incredible example of being a good man. Congratulations on your retirement and this exciting next chapter of your life! Thank you just doesn't seem adequate to express our gratitude for the impact you've had on our son.
Brooks Mattice – Father of Reagan Mattice (2022-Present)
Coach and Thank You for your impact on both of our kids. Reagan will miss your fist bumps on deck.
Sharon Sawyer – Grandmother of Griffin & Graham Sawyer (2020-Present)
Hope your new endeavor is very enjoyable for you. Congrats. Our grandson sure has liked swimming under your direction as head coach.
Dave Shondell – Purdue Volleyball Head Coach
Congratulations to Gentleman Dan Ross for an incredible and extremely memorable career as Purdue's swim skipper. His career will never be matched in commitment to his school, lives impacted, and friendships made. I'm so proud to consider Dan a great friend. See you on Ackerman!
Elliot Bloom – Purdue Alumnus & Purdue Basketball's Director of Administration & Operations
The Dean of Purdue Head Coaches – Dan Ross. Congrats on a tremendous career! Not sure there is someone around here who backs their fellow coaches and programs more than you. True Boiler!
Greg Earhart – Former Head Coach at Carthage College, Assistant at Indiana & Minnesota; Founder of Swim Cloud
This man has done so much for Purdue Swimming & Diving, Purdue University and coaches worldwide. DYK his swimmers have the longest careers and highest retention of any D1 swimming team? Amazing. Thank you, Dan Ross.
Lars Jorgensen – University of Kentucky Head Coach
Congratulations Dan Ross on an amazing career!! Great coach and better person who created an incredible legacy.
David Marsh – Assistant Coach at Cal; Former Head Coach of the USA Swimming Olympic Team & Auburn
Congrats Dan on an amazing and impactful career. All you have interacted with are better for their time with you! God Speed!
Pat Forde – Journalist & Father of Multiple Accomplished Swimmers
Happy retirement to a great guy and great ambassador for swimming, Purdue's Dan Ross.
Rowdy Gaines – Olympic Gold Medalist, International Swimming Hall of Famer & Longtime Swimming Commentator
Great coach, Better man
Courtney Hilmanowski
Congrats! I am sure coach Jack Pettinger is smiling down! I still remember him taking us to get sushi with you and some of the other coaches every time we were down at Purdue!
Dave Stacy
Dan Ross is one of the classiest coaches and gentlemen in the sport. He did things the right way and represented Purdue with enthusiasm and pride. He will be missed by his athletes and coaches, as well as the larger swimming community. Best of luck in retirement, Dan!
Emily Croft Schneider
You will be so missed. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the sport. What a true Boilermaker you are! Boiler Up!
Mary Wilson
Congratulations! You were swimming when I attended Purdue. A LOT of great swimmers came from your program.
Lisa Shirrell Paul
Thank you for your dedication to all these student athletes and being a great representative of Purdue.
Lanny Wilson
Congratulations Dan for your great years of service to Purdue and especially to the athletes you have made an impact on. Best to you in retirement.
Howard Zelaznik
Great career Dan. You also were an excellent student. Student-swimmers did well by you.
Connie Schneider
You have made such a difference to so many young men. Thank you.
Denise Ryan
Congrats, coach! Thank you for making such a huge difference for our swimmers!