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Celebrated coach Paul Meronen passes

News –

Swimming Canada mourns the loss of renowned coach Paul Meronen. Paul had an illustrious career as a swim coach in Canada over the past 45 years.

Paul’s career was highlighted by coaching Anne Ottenbrite to a gold medal in the 200-metre breaststroke at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Ottenbrite also captured Olympic silver and bronze medals in 1984.

Paul began coaching in 1972 at Etobicoke Memorial Aquatic Club. Over his career he coached at a number of clubs including Waterloo Swim Club, Ajax Aquatic Club, Muskoka Aquatic Club, Western Whales Swim Club, W Ross Macdonald Swimming, and St. John’s Legends Swim Club.

Paul was named Canadian Swimming Coaches Association’s Coach of the Year in 1984. In 2007, he was inducted into Swimming Canada’s Circle of Excellence. Paul was also inducted in the Canadian Swim Coaches and Teachers Association Hall of Fame in 2016.

Swimming Canada would like to extend sincere condolences to Paul’s family and friends.