May 21, 2012

LEXINGTON, Ky. –
John Brucato, who had held the post as an assistant swimming coach for the past 12 seasons at the University of Kentucky, has been named the first swimming and diving head coach at Bellarmine University, it was announced Monday.

“This is a great opportunity for John,” UK head coach Gary Conelly said. “He will do an excellent job for Bellarmine from pool planning and construction to recruiting and development of athletes.”

Brucato will serve as the first coach of the new start-up NCAA Division II program at Belarmine, and brings great experience to the table for the Knights. Brucato’s specialties include working with the breaststrokers and distance swimmers, as well as the offseason dryland-conditioning program. 

The Covington, Ky., native began his coaching career at the Covington YMCA and then spent two years with the Covington Clippers Swim Team. He then went on to spend five years at the Nashville Aquatic Club from 1985-90.

Brucato is a 1985 graduate of Northern Kentucky University where he received his degree in psychology. He lives in Lexington with his wife Jan, and their daughter, Katie.   

“We will miss John. He has had a tremendously positive impact on our team and USA Swimming. We wish all the best and good luck and we look forward to seeing him around the pool.” Conelly said.

For continuing coverage of UK swimming and diving, visit UKAthletics.com.