Sault Ste. Marie, MI – Lake Superior State University Athletics is thrilled to welcome Timothy "Tim" O'Neill as its new Director of Intercollegiate Swimming and Aquatics. O'Neill joins the Lakers with a strong track record of leadership, athlete development, and aquatics program management.

Most recently, Tim helped guide Lewis University to the best finishes in program history, including 42 NCAA Qualifying times and 10 school records in his first season as head coach. His impact was immediate and inspiring — a reflection of both his coaching acumen and his advancement of team culture.

As a former standout at UMass, Tim was in the top 10 all-time in the 100 fly and helped lead his team to three Atlantic 10 Conference Championships. He also swam under renowned coach Chuck Batchelor with Bluefish Swim Club, where he broke multiple records. In addition to his swimming career, Tim brings a leadership presence, with a bachelor's degree in economics and an MBA from Bryant University, plus nearly a decade of experience in finance and aquatics management.

Tory Lindley, LSSU Athletic Director, said, "We are absolutely thrilled to bring Tim O'Neill aboard. Tim brings a dynamic combination of high-level competitive experience, coaching excellence, and passionate leadership that I know will grow our program and energize the entire team. We believe he has the vision and drive to build a swimming program that reflects the grit and pride of LSSU."

"I am honored to join Lake Superior State and lead its Swim & Dive program," said O'Neill. "The university's dedication to excellence in sport, academics, and community aligns with my approach to coaching—developing the whole athlete. I look forward to working with our Lakers to build one of the premier NCAA Division II swim programs in the country.

O'Neill will officially begin his duties on July 29, 2025. Season schedules and details for the upcoming year will be released later this Fall.