Don Gambril was born January 2, 1934 in Altamont, Kan. In 1973 he took over the University of Alabama swimming program. By 1977 he had taken the Tide to the NCAA runner-up. His men’s teams won the SEC Championship in 1982 and 1987 while the women won in 1985. In his 18 years at Alabama, Coach Gambril has compiled 237 victories and 32 losses. Twice named National Swimming Coach of the Year. He was the head coach of the American swim team for the ‘84 Olympics and the 1990-91 US National Team for the Goodwill Games. Was given the US Swimming Award, the highest award the US Swimming bestows, at the US Aquatic Sports Convention. He now resides in Tuscaloosa.