Awards

The 2023 Skehan Award, one of the highest honors given in the Niagara LMSC region, is presented to an individual whom has contributed to the success of the LMSC region over an extended amount of time. For the 2023 year, we would like to present this award to Greg Danner. Greg has been an active member of USMS since 2006 as a swimmer & coach, part of the Niagara LMSC board since 2011 in which he was elected as acting Chair in 2012 to 2023, and was our webmaster for the Niagara Masters website.  Greg also served on the USMS Masters board as Secretary from 2017 to 2021, in which he earned the USMS Dorothy Donnelly Service Award in 2022. We would like to thank Greg for his passion, dedication and years of service he has provided to our region; this year, there is no one better to receive this award. Thank you very much Greg!

The most veteran member of our LMSC, Tom has been a staple on deck for 46 years (and counting) in Niagara. He's been described as both a dominant sprinter and as an innovative coach. While coaching for the BUMS, Tom incorporated USRPT methods, early adoption of power tower training devices, as well as other equipment use and drills. Tom has 70 individual USMS Top 10 achievements dating back to 1973, 24 relay Top 10 achievements, and 41 LMSC records across all course formats. He's also been a long time contributor to the BUMS, such as with numerous articles for their newsletter covering topics ranging from technique to mental approach.

An inspirational member of Niagara for over 35 years. She is the first woman to compete in Niagara at the age of 90. She has 74 USMS Top 10 achievements (and counting). As of this date, she holds over 40 Niagara records across seven age groups and in all courses (SCY, LCM, SCM). Additionally, she volunteered on the Niagara Board for several years: 1992-1993 as Secretary and in 1992-1994 as Fitness Chair. Coincidentally, she was coached by John Skehan at one point.

As Officials Chair for several years, he exceeded expectations by revitalizing the officiating structure within the LMSC. Pool events were staffed beyond USMS recommendations, officials were credited for their time in the USA Swimming Officials Tracking System (OTS), and we successfully implemented an officials payment program (for non-volunteers).

Ithaca area coach and swimmer for over 20 years. Has displayed remarkable leadership qualities and remains an inspiring figure in the world of masters swimming.

Ithaca meet host for 18+ years. Hosted over 20 masters swim meets in both Short Course Yards and Long Course Meters, providing thousands of swimmers with competitive opportunities in our area.

Served as Secretary from 1996-2010 and Sanctions officer from 2003-2011.

Served as Chair from 2000-2004 and Vice Chair from 2012-2014. Dan has been the President, Coach, and meet host for the Binghamton University Masters Swim club over the years. Also, Dan received the prestigious USMS Dorothy Donnelly Service Award in 2015.

Served as the Registrar from 1998-2013 and ran the Newsletter from 2005-2006.

Served as Chair in 1990 and Records Chair from 1998-2003. Recognized for his long support and service to Niagara over the years. Former President of Syracuse Masters and meet director for Syracuse area meets.

Vern served as the Open Water Chair from 1997-2013. Lynn served as Treasurer from 1996-2016. Both members hosted hugely successful Open Water and pool events in Canandaigua Lake and Canandaigua Academy for many years. They also created the Canandaigua Sawbellies masters club at the Canandaigua YMCA in 1987 and later moved to Canandaigua Academy in 1991.

Served as the Registrar from 1996-1997, Top Ten Recorder from 1994-1996, and Webmaster from 1998-2000. Jim created the first website for Niagara and continued to support Niagara for many years while working at the USMS National Office.

In recognition of his tireless and unselfish support of Niagara masters swimming. He was a referee/official who helped at many masters events.

For their continued support and participation in Niagara LMSC activities.

Volunteered many hours in support of the 1994 USMS Long Course National Championship Meet in Buffalo.

Though not swimmers, had continuously supported their husbands' efforts over the years and were frequently known for contributing work for Niagara. 

Began serving as Coaches/Fitness Chair in 1996 and continues to this day. Founded and coaches one of the most successful programs in the history of Niagara LMSC: Rochester Area Masters Swimming.

Served as our first Treasurer in 1987 until 1995, as Records Chair from 1995-1997, Postal Coordinator from 1998-2010, and Sanctions Chair since 2012.

Served as our first Officials Chair in 1989 until his unexpected passing in '89/'90.

One of the founders of Niagara LMSC. Served as Registrar from the early 80's-1995, Chair from 1996-1999, and Officials Chair from 1994-2011. George would later become a 1994 co-recipient of the USMS National Championship Meets Award and 2012 recipient of the USMS Dorothy Donnelly Service Award.

Gene was pivotal in the early years of Niagara, both at a local level on the Board and national level as a Niagara delegate. He would later become a 1994 co-recipient of the USMS National Championship Meets Award and 1997 recipient of the USMS Dorothy Donnelly Service Award.