For 36 years, Bob Hauck has been at the helm of the St. Olaf Swimming and Diving program, carrying on an incredible family legacy that spans 115 years of Haucks guiding the team since 1966. Under his leadership, the Oles have grown into a powerhouse, consistently reaching the top ranks in collegiate swimming and diving.
Hauck’s tenure is filled with outstanding achievements. The men’s team has clinched 30 conference championships, and the women’s team holds 15. In total, the Oles boast eight top-five NCAA team finishes, 21 top-10 placements, and an impressive 41 top-25 finishes. This incredible record showcases the program’s consistency and commitment to excellence over decades.
St. Olaf’s impact is felt well beyond the conference. Hauck’s program has produced 10 NCAA individual champions, with 23 individual national titles, five NCAA records, and two NCAA “Swimmer of the Year” awards. The team also has a remarkable history of producing Olympic Trial qualifiers, as well as a record of 155 All-Americans, further highlighting the program’s impact on competitive swimming.
The Oles are set to make waves this season, thanks in part to a talented roster of returning athletes who promise to be game-changers. Key returners include:
Paige Steenblock (Jr.), a MIAC champion in the 400 IM.
Ellen Varley (Sr.), a standout in sprints and fly events.
Lexi Cucchiaro (Sr.), known for her skill in distance freestyle.
Sami Sylvester (So.), a strong competitor in backstroke and IM events.
Alana Schmitzer (So.), a force in breaststroke.
Marcus Hauck (Sr.), a seasoned finalist in backstrokes.
Aiden Yung (Jr.), a versatile IM and breaststroke specialist.
Nick Starcevich (Jr.), a finalist in sprint free and breaststroke.
Beau Giddings (Jr.), known for his performance in fly events.
These athletes represent a balanced combination of experience and skill, setting up a promising season ahead.
This year’s incoming class features 27 new swimmers and divers, a promising group with the potential to elevate the team even further. Among the fresh faces are Jack Homme, Dobbin Chong, Travis Elling, Mitch Thronson, and Daniel Cameron on the men’s side. The women’s team adds Katie Homme, McKenna Hultgren, Olivia Small, Sawyer Eastman, Zibby Hanifl, Erica Johnson, and Emma Haines. Each of these athletes brings new energy and skill to the program.
When it comes to recruiting, Hauck prioritizes attitude, work ethic, and accountability, seeking athletes who are goal-oriented and team-focused. “Our program’s culture is centered on family,” Hauck says. “It’s a welcoming, supportive environment that’s both encouraging and challenging.” This close-knit team culture, along with a rich history and supportive coaching staff, has helped to create a unique space where athletes not only compete at high levels but also form lifelong bonds.
The St. Olaf Swimming and Diving program stands out for its continuity and a well-rounded approach to athlete development. With six coaches totaling 77 years of experience with St. Olaf, the team offers personalized training that helps each swimmer or diver achieve their individual goals. The diving program, in particular, is a point of pride and one that has consistently brought success to the team. This combination of seasoned coaches and comprehensive support for every athlete sets the Oles apart from other programs.
Hauck invites student-athletes who are excited for a rewarding college experience—where academics, swimming, and diving work in harmony. He looks for well-rounded individuals who are ready to contribute to St. Olaf’s long-standing tradition of excellence. “If you’re looking for a program with history, support, and the chance to develop into the best version of yourself, St. Olaf is the place to be,” he says.
The future is bright for St. Olaf’s Swimming and Diving program, as it continues to uphold a legacy that celebrates both individual achievement and team unity.