William McGarry '66

During his four years at Grove City, Bill McGarry became one of the College’s most decorated athletes.  In his freshman year, The Collegian referred to him as “the most outstanding freshman this school has probably ever known.”
 
A standout in the individual medley and distance events, he sparked the swimming and diving team to a 37-6 dual meet record from 1962-1966 and four Penn-Ohio Championships.
 
As a freshman from Mount Lebanon, McGarry made an immediate impact as he set school records in the 200 IM and the 500 freestyle.  In his second season, he garnered NCAA College Division All-America honors in the 200 and 400 IM, the 1650 and the 400 medley relay.
 
A change in College policy prevented McGarry from returning to the NCAA Championships as a junior and senior.  He did, however, set numerous Penn-Ohio and home and away pool records and also served as team co-captain in 1965-66.
 
McGarry graduated as a four-time All-American, varsity record-holder in eight events and as an eight-time Penn-Ohio conference champion.

In 1985, head coach Jim Longnecker selected him as a member of the inaugural class of the Grove City College Men’s Swimming and Diving Hall of Fame.
 
He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics and advanced through various positions in the airline industry for nearly 40 years.  He is a Certified Travel Consultant.