Donald L. Richards 

Inducted May 2003

Don Richards taught math and coached swimming at Cape Elizabeth from 1961-1991.  During that time his team’s dual meet record was 727 wins – 86 losses – 3 ties.  His girls team won 286 dual meets in a row from 1968 to 1986.  Don’s teams won 11 State Championships, 15 State Runners-up and 20 Southwestern Championships.  In 1984, his girls team was ranked #1 in the nation by NISCA Power-Point Ranking. 

Between 1991-2000, Don taught and coached at Tampa Preparatory School in Tampa, Florida.  At Tampa, Don’s teams dual meet record was 176 wins—12 losses-2 ties and they won three regional championships.  Don’s overall career dual meet record is 903 wins- 98 losses- 5 ties.  He has coached 68 Academic All-Americans and 15 swimming and diving All-Americans.  Don has been voted Maine Swimming Coach of the Year eight times. 

Other major accomplishments include NISCA Outstanding Service Award in 1984, featured article in Sports Illustrated in 1990, honored by having the Cape Elizabeth swimming pool named the Donald L. Richards Community Pool in 1991, and received the USM Richard A. Costello Special Achievement Award in 1998. 

In addition, Don was founder of the Nautilus Swim Cub in Cape Elizabeth, founding member of the Southern Maine Swimming Officials Association, and served many years as the Secretary and Treasurer of the Maine Swim Coaches Association.  Don served as Meet Director for the State Swimming and Diving Championships for many years.