PAUL ROSSI

1982 INDUCTION TO THE RHODE ISLAND AQUATIC HALL OF FAME

Paul’s association with swimming spans over 50 years.  Beginning in 1927 when Paul joined the Wanskuck Boys’ Club, to his current position as aquatic director and swim coach at Cranston YMCA.  As a member of the Wanskuck Boys’ Club, Paul was the premier freestyler of his time.  His accomplishments included:  National Junior AAU 500 freestyle winner and record holder; Moody Mile Champion; record holder in the 1 mile freestyle, 500 freestyle, 200 freestyle and 100 backstroke; and he was named outstanding athlete of the year by the Boys’ Club of America.  In 1936 Paul competed in the United States Olympic trials held at the Rocky Point pool in Warwick.  During WWII, Paul served in the Navy as a swimming instructor and water rescue instructor.  After his tour of duty in the Navy, Paul joined the Providence Police department in the traffic and juvenile division.  One of Paul’s special duties was instructor of water safety and first aid to the Providence and State Police.  Paul was appointed aquatic director to the Fox Point Boys’ Club.  After completing three successful years at Fox Point, Paul left swimming to go into private business.  In 1970, Paul returned to swimming, as aquatic director and coach of the Cranston YMCA.  In this capacity, Paul has developed on of the most successful aquatic and swim team programs in the New England area.  During the past 13 years that Paul has been coaching the Cranston YMCA swim team, many of his swimmers have competed in National and International competition.  56 swimmers have qualified for National competition and one of his swimmers holds two YMCA National records.  Paul has been active in many organizations which includes Past President of the New England AAU Coaches and Officials association; Past President/Field Agent for the SENECY YMCA; Past President of the Rhode Island Coaches and Officials Association; member of the New England United States Swimming Sanctioning Committee; member of the New England Swim Committee; Vice President of the R.I. Aquatic Hall of Fame.  Paul has also received numerous awards during his aquatic career, which include:  Service Award of the American Red Cross; Special Olympics Service Award; Joseph Tracey Award for contribution to R.I. swimming; National YMCA Service Award.