George Kennedy, former Johns Hopkins men's and women's swimming coach, has been named to the 2026 Richard A. Rasmussen UAA Hall of Fame Class. This recognition highlights his exceptional 31-season coaching career, during which he won 373 dual meets and secured 24 conference titles, including 15 UAA championships. Kennedy is notable for mentoring 31 national champions and over 1,500 All-Americans. As the first representative from Johns Hopkins to be inducted, he played a pivotal role in the university's history within the UAA from its inception through the 2000-01 academic year.

By the Numbers
  • 373 dual meet wins during his coaching career.
  • 24 conference titles, including 15 in the UAA.
  • 31 national champions and over 1,500 All-Americans coached.
  • 48 top-10 finishes at NCAA Championships, including 21 top-five finishes.
Yes, But

While Kennedy's achievements are celebrated, criticisms can be noted regarding the overall performance consistency of the teams during his early years, as the program needed time to establish a competitive presence in the UAA.

State of Play
  • Kennedy is the first Johns Hopkins representative in the UAA Hall of Fame.
  • The 2026 class includes 16 inductees across various sports.
What's Next

The 2026 UAA Hall of Fame induction ceremony will further spotlight Kennedy's legacy and contributions to collegiate swimming, reinforcing the importance of historical achievements in sports programs.

Bottom Line

George Kennedy's induction into the UAA Hall of Fame underscores his lasting impact on Johns Hopkins swimming, showcasing a rich legacy of excellence in coaching and athlete development.