MUSCATINE, Iowa–Judd Anderson, swim coach at Muscatine High School, has helped students perfect their swimming skills for generations. Anderson began coaching in 1964 and continues to enjoy his work 56 years later. At the January meeting of Purple and Gold, Anderson shared some of his fondest experiences.

Anderson has worked with many successful athletes. Of particular note, Anderson coached Crissy Ahmann, who later went on to win three gold and one silver medal in the 1992 summer Olympics.

A very inclusive coach, Anderson worked with swimmers of all levels if they expressed an interest in joining the swim team. Anderson deeply valued getting to coach Teddy McGee, a student with disabilities who swam throughout his time in Muscatine. A dedicated athlete, McGee trained diligently, but struggled to break his record of swimming two lengths of the pool in two minutes. Anderson will never forget McGee breaking his record his final swim meet senior year.

Even after so many years of coaching, Anderson loves his job as much as he did day one. “It’s a pleasure and a privilege to do what I’m doing,” he said. Anderson plans to continue coaching as long as he can.