A former U.S. Olympics coach passed away at the Phoenix, Arizona airport on Sunday. He was 75 years old.
Frank Busch, a longtime collegiate swimming coach who served as the director of USA swimming teams at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, was the coach at the University of Arizona from 1989 until 2011.
The University of Arizona is deeply saddened by his passing.
“Coach Busch is a coaching icon in swimming circles, and his impact stretches throughout our sport, from the club level to the college level to the Olympics,” said Ben Loorz, Arizona’s swimming and diving head coach, in a statement. “Our program wouldn’t be where it is today without the foundation he created. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones.”
Busch was reportedly returning from a fishing trip in Idaho when he collapsed and died at the airport, according to tucson.com.
The longtime U.S. swimming coach was inducted into the American Swimming Coaches Hall of Fame in 2008.
“Frank’s impact on USA Swimming and the sport as a whole is difficult to measure because it reaches far beyond the medals, teams, and championships associated with his name,” Kevin Ring, USA Swimming president and CEO, said in a statement. “He dedicated his life to helping athletes and coaches reach their potential and to making our sport stronger. We are deeply grateful for his leadership, perspective, and decades of service to USA Swimming. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, former athletes, and the countless people whose lives he touched.”
Fans are crushed by his passing
“A special Human indeed. Rest in peace friend,” one fan wrote.
“We will miss you, coach. Rest in peace,” one fan added.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Frank Busch. Frank was a model community leader, and a wonderful ambassador of the Bowl. Mr. Busch received our Arizona Strong award just last year. His leadership and kindness will be missed immensely,” the Arizona Bowl added.
Rowdy Gaines shared: “Heartbroken to hear about Frank Busch. One of the great coaches in our sport. Arizona legend, 2008 NCAA sweep, and NT director of perhaps 🐐 combined Olympic team in 2016. He made people better in the pool and out of it. Rest easy, Coach.”
Our thoughts are with his friends and family members during this difficult time.
