Twenty years ago, Virginia Tech hired Ned Skinner to become their next swim and dive coach. At age 32, Skinner had just come off a four-year coaching stint with William and Mary, where was named the Eastern College Athletic Conference Coach of the Year. His years in Blacksburg went as well as anyone could have hoped. With the Hokies, Skinner won four team conference titles, two ACC Coach of the Year Awards, and produced 40 individual ACC Champions.
On Monday, Skinner’s excellent run came to an end. The coach decided to step down, ending his own 28-year coaching career.
“I’m proud of the way our student-athletes represented Virginia Tech over the years, as well as the way they performed academically and athletically.” Skinner said. “I appreciate all the efforts of our student-athletes, as well as our dedicated coaches and support staff. After 20 seasons, I simply felt the time was right for a new leader to take over the direction of the program.”
“I want to thank Coach Skinner for his contributions during his 20 seasons of service to Virginia Tech,” VT Athletic Director Whit Babcock said. “Now we are tasked with the right individual to lead our swimming and diving program going forward. We will make no further comments regarding our swimming and diving program until we announce our head coach.”
It is also worth noting that Skinner's athletes had success both inside and outside the aquatic center. The Swim and Dive team accrued some of the highest GPA's of any Virginia Tech varsity sport.
Assistant Sarah Stockwell-Gregson will take over as the interim head coach for the Hokies.
Photo Credit: Harley Taylor
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