Key Takeaways
- Kim Bierwert dedicated 40 years to Smith College’s swim and dive program, becoming one of the most successful coaches in the institution’s history while producing three national champions and 31 All-Americans.
- Beyond Smith College, Bierwert’s influence shaped the broader swimming community through his leadership roles in multiple organizations and his service on the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Committee.
- His impact as a mentor and coach touched generations of athletes, with former students describing his influence as “life-changing” and his legacy extending far beyond competitive achievements.
Smith College and the swimming community are mourning the loss of former Head Swim and Dive Coach Kim Bierwert.
Known for his extraordinary dedication to the sport and his athletes, Bierwert’s legacy spans over four decades, shaping generations of swimmers and divers at Smith College.
In a heartfelt statement, Smith College recognized Bierwert’s unparalleled contributions:
“After 40 years leading these programs, he became one of the most successful coaches in Smith Athletics history. His impact and legacy will not be forgotten.”
Via Facebook
A Storied Coaching Career
Kim Bierwert began his tenure at Smith College in 1977 and remained the longest-serving coaching staff member.
Throughout his career, he built a powerhouse swim and dive program, guiding countless student-athletes to success in and out of the pool.
Kim Bierwert Talks Coaching After 40 Years with Smith College https://t.co/aL1TSbldVC pic.twitter.com/4ewB9LCb36
— Swimming World (@SwimmingWorld) May 30, 2017
During the 2015-16 season, Bierwert led CeCe Arrison ’16 to compete at the 2016 NCAA Swimming and Diving tournament on both the 1m and 3m boards.
Over the years, his expertise helped produce three national champions and 31 All-Americans, including five who earned All-American status every year of their college careers.
Among these standout athletes were Lisa Marlow ’83, Maureen McMahon ’84, Monique Fischer ’86, Adele Burgess ’88, and Dawn Gerken ’96.
Barbara King emerged as a two-time diving national champion under Bierwert’s guidance, while McMahon won the 100 fly in 1984, and Fischer claimed the 200 backstroke title in 1986.
Bierwert’s leadership propelled Smith College’s team to national prominence, with appearances at the NCAA championships in 21 of the last 30 years and top-10 finishes in 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, and 1986.
Recognitions And Contributions To The Sport
Bierwert’s influence extended beyond Smith College.
He was honored as the New England Women’s and Men’s Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) Diving Coach of the Year in 2006 and received the New England Women’s Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association Diving Coach of the Year award in 1994 and 1997.
A graduate of MIT, where he swam competitively for four years, Bierwert also played a crucial role in the broader swimming community.
.@SmithPioneers head coach Kim Bierwert doles out the hardware at the NCAA D-III Swimming and Diving Championships! pic.twitter.com/7XoJ0LWKvY
— NEWMAC (@NEWMACsports) March 22, 2015
He served as president of the Western Massachusetts Swimming League and the New England Women’s Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association.
Additionally, he was a board member of the College Swim Coaches of America Association and the New England United States Swimming Committee.
From 2011 to 2015, he was a member of the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Committee, serving as its chair for two years.
A Lasting Legacy
Bierwert was more than a coach—he was a mentor, a leader, and an inspiration to many.
His impact stretched far beyond the pool deck, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those he coached.
A former athlete shared her heartfelt tribute:
“It’s hard to put into words your impact, Kim Bierwert. Your gifts were life-changing for people across the globe.”
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Another added:
“We never anticipate that someone iconic in our lives will someday be gone, regardless of how much time passes. Sending love, hugs, and keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.”
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