Even a quarter century after his death, there is only one “Mr. Swimming” in London and that accolade belongs to Dr. Paul Hauch.
His first touch of athletic fame came on the football field as a member of Western’s first team in 1926 and captain of the Mustangs in 1929. But it was swimming where he made his mark … in London, across Canada, and around the world. He coached, mentored, organized, and provided medical treatment to swimmers everywhere.
Dr. Hauch is a member of the Canadian Amateur Sports Hall of Fame and the Canadian Aquatic Hall of Fame. He served as manager and physician for three Canadian Olympic swimming teams and had an international reputation with swimming organizations throughout the U.S. and Europe. As a sports’ doctor, he introduced a number of treatment initiatives. His love for the sport and the athletes in it saw him found the London YMCA Aquatic Club where in coached from 1943 to 1973.
Yes, it’s still an unchallenged title, London’s “Mr. Swimming” Dr. Paul Hauch.