Kim Bierwert was a remarkable coach who left a lasting impact on swimming and diving and an indelible mark on the world of sports.
Although his recent passing has saddened many, his legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched.
Kim Bierwert started coaching at Smith College in 1977. Over the next 40 years, he became one of the college’s most successful coaches.
He led his team to many national championships and NCAA appearances. Under his guidance, three athletes became national champions, and 33 were named All-Americans.
Some of his notable athletes included Barbara King, Maureen McMahon, and Monique Fischer.
Kim’s teams consistently ranked among the top in the NCAA Division III championships. They achieved top-10 finishes in 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, and 1986.
This showed how well he could adapt and innovate over the years. Kim was also a respected figure in the collegiate swimming community.
He served on the NCAA Division III Swimming & Diving Committee and chaired it for two years.
After retiring from Smith College in 2018, Kim didn’t stop being involved in swimming; he was still the owner and pool director of Northampton Swim Club in 1983.
There, he worked with swimmers of all levels, from beginners to elite athletes.
He helped them improve their technique and enjoy the sport.
Even in retirement, Kim’s passion for swimming remained strong.
Kim was married to Louie Bierwert, who runs “Workout With Louie.” They had two children, Lindsay and Joel.
The family lived in Leeds, Massachusetts.
Kim’s impact on his athletes went beyond winning; he helped build their character and foster a love for swimming.
His sayings, like “always more toothpaste left in the tube” and “eat dessert first,” became famous among his team members. These sayings reflected his unique approach to life and coaching.
Although Kim Bierwert’s Death Leaves A Hole In The Swimming Community, His Legacy Will Continue
Many people have shared heartfelt messages after Kim’s passing. Megan Bresnehan said that Kim’s impact was life-changing for people worldwide and wrote,
‘It’s hard to put into words your impact, Kim Bierwert. Your gifts were life-changing for people across the globe 💚😥’
Via Facebook
Others remembered him as the “best coach,” whose enthusiasm for swimming and life was contagious,
‘😢the best coach. Full of great sayings or Kim-isms “always more toothpaste left in the tube” and “eat dessert first”. I wasn’t supposed to swim after knee surgeries in high school but was talked in to visiting Kim my 1st year by Ellen Barney Blaint – and ended up on the team.
Via Instagram
Peace be with Louie, the kids and all of the Wild Bunch 🏊♀️’
Smith College also paid tribute to Kim, acknowledging his massive contribution to their athletic history.
During the NEWMAC Championship, a moment of silence was held in his honor, which showed how much he meant to the college and its community.
Kim Bierwert was more than just a coach; he was a mentor and a friend.
He cared deeply about his athletes and encouraged them to pursue their passions, even when faced with challenges.
For instance, he convinced a student to join the team despite having knee surgeries.
This showed his belief in the power of sports to transform lives.
Kim’s story reminds us that true greatness is not just about achievements but about the people you touch along the way.
His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of swimmers and coaches.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Kim Bierwert went to Northampton High School.
- He completed his Bachelor of Science (BS) in Economics at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1972.
- Kim’s son Joel Bierwert became well-known for his relationship with Bella Barbaro on Love Island USA Season 4.
