Derick Roe has been named the new head coach of Division II Ashland University in Ohio. He will replace Paul Graham, who left to take over Division I Cleveland State. The Ashland women finished 20th and the Ashland men finished 18th at last year’s NCAA Championships.
See the full press release below, courtesy of Ashland University.
Derick Roe has been named Ashland University’s head men’s and women’s swimming and diving coach. Roe spent the past year as the interim head swimming and diving coach at Ohio University.
Roe spent two years at Ohio University, one as an assistant coach and one as the interim head coach. He also spent two years as an assistant swimming coach at Colgate and he’s been a an assistant coach with the Ypsilanti Otters Swim Club in Ypsilanti, Mich., and Greenhills High School in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Roe is a 2010 graduate of Eastern Michigan. He was a four-year letterman in the pool at EMU and was a two-time Mid-American Conference swimmer of the year. He is the program’s record holder in the 50 freestyle, a two-time NCAA mid-major All-American and a two-time United States Olympic Trials participant.
“During the interview process, Derick distinguished himself with his vision for our program and his thoughts on developing the total student-athlete,” said AU assistant athletic director Al King. “Our program has enjoyed great success with student-athletes who succeed academically and athletically. We believe Derick can continue that tradition and build upon the principles Paul Graham put in place.
“Derick told us that he’s wanted to be a head swimming coach since he was a teenager,” continued King. “He’s done a phenomenal job getting a swimming education and he’s had some excellent mentors along the way. I’m excited to have him join our staff.”
As an assistant coach at Ohio University, Roe was the recruiting coordinator. He also created sprint water workouts and a weight training program. Last year, when he was named the interim head coach, he was responsible for overall management of the program. During his time with the Bobcats, six varsity and MAC records were established. Roe coached athletes who advanced to the NCAA Championships in 2013 and 2014. Addy Ferguson was named first team all-conference and set the MAC record in the 100 backstroke.
Came in and destroyed Ashland swim program! Not nearly experienced enough at coaching, recruiting or team management. Needs much more seasoning!
Great hire! Derick will bring energy and excitement to the program! Congrats!
Add another head coach to Peter Linn’s coaching tree.