ROCHESTER, Mich. – Men's and women's swimming and diving head coach
Pete Hovland has announced the addition of
Paul Karas to his staff.
"I am very pleased Paul has decided to accept my offer. The Karas family, and Paul, in particular, have played major roles in the growth, development, and success of Oakland University and our swimming program," Hovland said. "His breadth of knowledge and experience will be an asset to the student-athletes as well as my staff as we navigate through 2020 and beyond. I couldn't be happier."
Karas was a decorated member of the men's swimming team from 1973-77 where he was a 20-time All-American, set nine school records, and was Oakland University's first national champion.
In 1984, Karas was inducted to the Hollie L. Lepley Hall of Honor, the first hall of fame class in Oakland Athletics history.
(from left) Hollie Lepley, Corey VanFleet,
Kathy Hewelt, Paul Karas, Carvin Melson
Karas brings a wealth of coaching experience at the high school, club, and collegiate levels. From 1998-2001 Karas served as the assistant coach at Oakland where he focused on the distance swimmers. Karas also coached at the local YMCA and area high schools including Rochester and Troy Athens.
Karas, a native of Rochester, Mich. earned a degree from Oakland in engineering in 1977 and an MBA in 1984.
