“I Want To Apologise”: Michael Phelps’ Former Coach Bob Bowman Issues Statement to Michigan Swimming Team

Bob Bowman, celebrated for his coaching brilliance alongside Olympic icon Michael Phelps, assumes leadership of Texas’ swimming program, a revelation made by the university on Monday. Departing from a distinguished nine-year stint at Arizona State, where he notably led the Sun Devils to their first-ever national championship, Bowman succeeds Eddie Reese.

Reese, a stalwart who guided the Longhorns’ dominant program for an incredible 46 seasons, leaves behind a legacy of excellence. Nonetheless, it appears Bowman after joining the Texas still harbors a fondness for his former team.

Bob Bowman’s candid confession

In his press conference today, Bob Bowman addressed recent remarks made by Branden Keith on X, expressing remorse and offering an apology to the Michigan team for his initial lack of familiarity with college coaching upon his arrival. Bowman candidly acknowledged, “I want to apologize to the Michigan guys because I didn’t know anything about college coaching when I got there…but everything I learned there went into winning a national championship at ASU”

The Longhorns are poised to dive into a new era of swimming and diving prowess with the appointment of Bob Bowman as director of swimming and diving. Bowman’s appointment not only enriches the team with his extensive leadership background but also elevates his role to head men’s coach, broadening his scope of responsibilities and enhancing his already remarkable portfolio.

However, the transition remains inclusive, ensuring that the women’s team receives due attention and support. Under the adept leadership of Carol Capitani, they’ve achieved remarkable success, clinching a third consecutive runner-up finish at the NCAA championships. While filling the shoes of a legend like Eddie Reese might appear formidable, Bowman’s impressive track record speaks volumes, instilling confidence in the team’s future endeavors.

At ASU, he fostered an environment of excellence, producing 14 All-Americans and leading the team to a resounding national title victory, leaving competitors in their wake with a staggering 79-point lead over California. With Texas Athletic Director Chris Del Conte expressing utmost confidence in Bowman’s ability to maintain the university’s swimming success, the future of Longhorn swimming looks brighter than ever.

Read More: NCAA Swimming: Eddie Reese Signs $2.2 Million Extended Contract With Texas Longhorns