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Fact of the Day

May 20, 1999

Coach Awarded 'Medal of Freedom'
Bob Kiphuth is one of the most decorated American Swimming Coaches of all time. He began his career as a physical education teacher at Yale University in 1914. He was head coach of the swim team from 1918 until 1959. He was also coach of the US Olympic team from 1928 to 1948.

Kiphuth's Yale team won the Eastern Intercollegiate league championships 38 times. The Yale team were also the high point team at 7 National Indoor Championships and his summer team the New Haven Swim Club were the top team at 5 National Outdoor Championships.

For his efforts to preach, build and promote the sport of swimming and life saving around the world, Kiphuth was honoured by the Emporer of Japan with the 'Order of the Sacred Treasure'. In 1963 he was honoured with the 'Medal of Freedom', America's highest civilian award, which was presented by President Johnson at a White House ceremony.