Nestled among the academic buildings and athletic facilities at Oakland University lies a place of triumph, dedication, and legacy — the natatorium. For more than four decades, this pool has been more than just a venue for competitions; it's been the epicenter of dreams realized, records broken and lifelong bonds formed. And at the heart of it all stands one man whose influence reverberates through the corridors of the natatorium — Coach Pete Hovland.
As Oakland University prepares for its Black and Gold Giving Day on March 6, there's a unique opportunity to honor Coach Hovland's monumental contributions to the men's and women's swimming and diving programs. With the generous support of donors like you, we aim to name the natatorium after Coach Hovland, ensuring that his legacy of excellence endures for generations to come.
From his early days in 1979 to his retirement in May 2023, Coach Hovland's passion and dedication never wavered. Under his leadership, Oakland University's swimming and diving programs achieved unprecedented success, boasting an incredible streak of 44 consecutive men's conference championships and 29 consecutive women's conference championships.
But Coach Hovland's impact extends far beyond the trophies and titles. He's a mentor, a friend and a pillar of support for generations of athletes. His influence is deeply felt, as evidenced by the personal connections he's formed with students and their families.
To commemorate Coach Hovland's remarkable career, Oakland University launched an initiative to raise over $1 million to name the natatorium after him. Dollars raised during OU's Black and Gold Giving Day will support this initiative. These funds will be endowed to support the men's and women's swimming and diving programs, ensuring that Coach Hovland's vision for excellence continues to thrive. From nutrition and equipment to team travel and scholarships, every dollar donated will contribute to the growth and development of the programs he so loves.
Operating out of Oakland University for more than 50 years, OLY Swimming has pledged to match Black and Gold Giving Day donations up to $25,000. With 400 swimmers in their program and a history of supporting Oakland University's swimming program, OLY Swimming understands the importance of preserving Coach Hovland's legacy.
"Oakland is our home," says Jeff Cooper, head coach and CFO of OLY Swimming. "Naming the natatorium after Pete is the right thing to do for Pete and his legacy. And it's the right thing to do for our organization because Oakland University is our home."
For Cooper, who was a swimmer at Oakland University from 1984 to 1988 and a recipient of numerous All-American honors under Coach Hovland's guidance, the initiative holds special significance. "The legacy of Oakland swimming is Pete," he affirms. "Our awesome aquatic center should have his name on it. To me, Oakland swimming is family."
On March 6, as the Oakland University community comes together to celebrate Black and Gold Giving Day, we invite you to be a part of something truly special. Join us in honoring Coach Pete Hovland and ensuring a bright future for Oakland University's swimming and diving program. Together, we can continue his legacy of excellence and uphold the tradition of family that defines Oakland University swimming.
