University of Massachusets Athletics

Hall of Fame

Joe Rogers Jr.
Joe Rogers Jr.
  • Induction:
    1981
Joseph Rogers served as the swimming coach at UMass for 36 years, from 1935-73. During that time, he compiled a career record that included 152 victories.

Rogers was also long recognized as one of the nation's leading authorities on pool construction and maintenance. Rogers joined the faculty of the University in 1930, and through his interest and tireless efforts, swimming became a varsity sport in 1935.

Over the years, he served on various regional and national committees. He served as president of the College Swimming Coaches Association of America, the New England Swimming Coaches Association, and the United States Revolver's Association.

Rogers also coached the UMass rifle team during his tenure at the swimming coach. When he wasn't coaching, Rogers enjoyed pistol shooting and canoeing.

In 1985, the Trustees of the University voted to name the pool in the Boyden Building after Rogers. That pool still serves as the home to the men's and women's swimming and diving teams.

Rogers passed away in 1988 at the age of 80. He was inducted into the UMass Athletics Hall of Fame in 1981.
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