The Rowan University community is mourning the loss of a legendary figure in collegiate swimming. Tony Lisa, the longtime head coach of the Profs' men's and women's swim teams, passed away on Saturday at the age of 69, the school's athletic department confirmed Monday.

Lisa's impact on the pool deck was monumental. Over 35 seasons guiding the men's team, he amassed an impressive 265-90-1 record. His tenure with the women's program was equally stellar, posting a 204-65 mark across 26 campaigns. In total, his 469 combined victories stand as a testament to his coaching excellence and dedication to the sport.

“The Rowan University athletic department has lost one of its great coaches with the passing of Tony Lisa,” said athletic director Dan Gilmore. “Tony was not only a great coach but he was an ambassador for Rowan University and the athletic program.”

Lisa's career at Rowan spanned from 1977 to 2007, with a notable return in 2009 after serving as an assistant swim coach and recruiting coordinator for the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He officially retired from coaching in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of discipline and success.

A 1966 graduate of Pennsville High School, Lisa's honors extended well beyond the win column. He was enshrined in both the Gloucester County and Salem County Halls of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the sport at the local and national level.

In lieu of flowers, the Lisa family has requested that memorial contributions be made to the Special Olympics of New Jersey or to the Rowan men's and women's swim and dive teams. A viewing will be held at Kelley's Funeral Home in Pitman, New Jersey, on June 21 from 5 to 9 p.m., followed by a resurrection service at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Pitman on June 22 at 10 a.m.