Kearney High School Swim Coach Jane Bartee Retires After 14 Years

News Summary

Kearney High School bids farewell to swim coach Jane Bartee, who announced her retirement after 14 transformative years. Starting as a volunteer, Bartee’s leadership brought record-breaking accomplishments and instilled a culture of excellence within the swim program. Her dedication shaped young athletes and fostered a strong community spirit. As she transitions to the classroom, her legacy will continue to inspire. Kearney celebrates her contributions and wishes her well in her next chapter.

Kearney High School Swim Coach Jane Bartee Announces Retirement After 14 Years of Transformative Leadership

Kearney, a bustling city known for its vibrant community spirit, is waving goodbye to a beloved figure in its swim program. After an incredible 14 years, Jane Bartee, the head coach of the Kearney High School swim team, has announced her retirement. Bartee’s journey began back in 2009 when she jumped into the role of a volunteer coach shortly after relocating to Kearney. Little did anyone know, this would start an inspiring chapter for the local swim community.

From Volunteer to Visionary

Bartee’s passion quickly outshone any apprehensions. She transitioned from a volunteer to an assistant coach and then took the helm as head coach for the 2015–2016 season, coinciding with the grand opening of the new Kearney High School swimming facility. Under her leadership, the team transformed in impressive ways. Who could forget the thrilling moments when nine out of the sixteen individual swimming records were broken? Talk about making waves!

The success didn’t stop there either. The swim teams consistently earned multiple top-10 finishes at the state meet, proving that Kearney High was a force to be reckoned with in the pool. In 2021, the boys’ team brought home the coveted HAC Boys Team Runner-Up title, showcasing their hard work and determination. What a ride!

Legacy of Achievement

Perhaps the crowning jewel of Bartee’s tenure came in 2018 when a standout swimmer named Collin McKelvey clinched the 100 freestyle title. This monumental victory marked Kearney’s first individual state championship since 2005, sending waves of pride throughout the community. It’s moments like these that create legends, and Bartee has certainly added to her legacy.

Beyond school triumphs, many of Bartee’s swimmers have taken their talents to the next level, competing in NCAA Division I and Division II swimming programs. This shows just how much she has nurtured and groomed young athletes for success, both in and out of the swimming pool. It sounds like Bartee has a real talent for spotting potential!

A Heartfelt Goodbye