Former Duke swimming, diving coach dies

DURHAM Thompson served as the head swimming and diving coach at Duke for 27 years before retiring in May of 2005. Following his retirement from coaching, Thompson remained with the school as a member of the Health and Physical Education Department's staff.

"The entire Duke community mourns the loss of Coach Thompson today," said Duke Vice President and Director of Athletics Kevin White. "I didn't have the honor of knowing Coach Thompson very well, but I've quickly realized the tremendous impact he had on Duke University, the Duke athletic department and a countless number of student-athletes. He will be missed."

Thompson began as an assistant coach at Duke in 1978.

He was a native of New Kensington, Pa. and is survived by his two daughters, Jill and Tracie.