I learned today that Ric Nesbit died last Friday. Ric was friend, a Master’s coach in Ft. Worth, Texas and a true friend of the sport. He swam at the University of Texas at Arlington in the late 60’s and was an NCAA champion in the 100 *** and in the 4 x 100 Medley Relay.
I swam at UTA in the early 70’s and Ric came to every home meet. He continued to support swimming and UTA athletics even after they discontinued the swimming program. In recent years he put together several reunions of swimmers and divers in Arlington. He was inducted into the Texas Swimming Hall of Fame in 2009.
In recent years I looked forward to seeing him on the deck at area Masters meets. He inspired many local Masters swimmers to enjoy the sport that had been such a large part of his life. Ric will be missed by all who knew him.
A quote that he gave in an article concerning his induction into the Texas Swimming Hall of Fame sums up his attitude about swimming, “It’s very gratifying to be able to assist in the development of a swimmer at any age. Swimming has been an integral part of who I am all my life, and now it’s just nice to be able to help others.”
Ric was a great person and a true friend to swimming who will be missed.
