Issue link: https://catalog.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1163127
27 Ten history in 1988 and was a part of the NCAA and Big Ten record 200-yard freestyle relay in 1989. "I wanted that Big Ten record," said Long. "David Cowell of Ohio State had it. I did get to second, just ahead of Mark Spitz. (Former Indiana and Olympic Hall of Fame coach) Doc Counsilman presented me one of my awards, which was a special thing." e Hawkeyes finished 13th at the NCAA Championships in 1988 before climbing into the top 10 the following season. e eighth-place finish was the highest in the modern era in school history. "ere was a lot of talent on that team, a lot of great athletes and successful people," said Long. "I was a captain of that team and it was an amazing experience." Long worked outside of swimming for four years following graduation before diving back into the sport as a head club coach in Chicago. He returned to the Hawkeye State to lead the Iowa City Swim Club before joining collegiate ranks as an Iowa assistant coach. He was named the women's head coach in 2004 and also for the men when the programs combined in 2006. "In a lot of ways, coaching at my alma mater gives me extra respect for the program," said Long. "I want to make sure all these athletes have the resources and tools to try to go that extra length to make sure this is a place to have the best experience of their lives, but also be pushed to be the best they can. "Swimming and diving has changed a lot over the years, but it's always going to be about the people. It's about the people on the staff, the student- athletes, and making sure we use the resources to have a successful program."