News Summary

John Ruzicka has been appointed as the new aquatic director of the Tigard Tualatin Aquatic District, bringing decades of swimming experience and a vision for the community’s future. A lifelong resident of Tigard, Ruzicka hopes to enhance local swimming programs and aims to build a new community pool as part of a sports complex. With strong connections to his roots and a commitment to nurturing young talent, he is positioned to lead the district towards exciting aquatic developments.

Tigard Welcomes New Aquatic Director with a Splash!

In the heart of Tigard, something exciting is happening at the Tigard Tualatin Aquatic District! As of October 2024, John Ruzicka has taken the helm as the new aquatic director, bringing with him decades of experience in both swimming and coaching. For those who know him, this isn’t just a job – it’s a return to his roots.

A Lifelong Connection to Water

John’s journey in the world of swimming began at the tender age of five when his family moved to Tigard. Throughout his childhood, he spent summers with his grandparents in Summerfield while his parents worked, instilling in him a deep love for the local community. His first swimming lessons came at the Summerfield pool, where Gurney Day, a keen observer, spotted little John struggling on the ladder and decided to step in. That moment marked the beginning of John’s swimming adventure.

Ruzicka soon joined the Tigard Aquatic Club in 1980, where he honed his skills and ultimately swam through high school, graduating in 1993. By the time he left high school, he had etched his name in the annals of local sports history as one of the first Junior National Qualifiers from the club. His talent shone brightly as he clinched an Oregon state title in the 200-individual medley and became an All-American in two events during his senior year.

From Collegiate Champion to Coach

His athletic prowess earned him a spot on the swimming team at Iowa State University, where he made significant waves by breaking four school records and securing All-American honors. Ruzicka’s ambition didn’t stop there; he also qualified for the 1996 Olympic Trials, a monumental achievement that showcased his dedication to the sport.

While still in college, this future aquatic leader began to share his knowledge through coaching. He was a student assistant for both varsity swim teams while also contributing to a swim-lesson program called Swim America, aimed at promoting a love for competitive swimming among young athletes.

Rooted in Tigard

After earning a degree in city planning from Iowa State, Ruzicka made his way back to Tigard in 1998, ready to dive into the world of local swimming. He started full-time at the Tigard pool and began coaching at Tigard High School, eventually taking the reins as head water polo coach in 2001 and head swim coach in 2008. He even taught swim lessons to second- and fourth-graders until 2003, showing his dedication to nurturing young talent.

Even today, you can find Ruzicka swimming laps twice a week, staying connected to the water that has played such a significant role in his life. His high school coach and former aquatic director, Mike Branam, continues to serve as a mentor, guiding him through his new role.

The Role of Aquatic Director

As aquatic director, Ruzicka has taken on a multitude of responsibilities overseeing both the Tigard and Tualatin pools. His duties include everything from hiring and firing staff to managing budgets and ensuring the pools run smoothly. With eight full-time employees under his supervision, John is focused on maintaining a clean and welcoming environment for swimmers of all levels.

Looking Towards the Future

Ruzicka has big visions for the community! One of his primary goals is to create a new community pool that could serve as the centerpiece of a sports complex, in collaboration with local parks. He’s passionate about addressing the lack of Olympic-sized pools in the metro area, advocating for the construction of a third one right here in Tigard. In fact, he has his sights set on an empty field next to the Tigard Swim Center as a potential site for this new aquatic facility.

A Family Man

On a personal note, Ruzicka’s life is just as vibrant. He connected with his future wife, Jaime, during his 10-year Tigard High School reunion. Together, they have two daughters who, while involved in dance rather than swimming, keep John on his toes. With one daughter starting high school and the other in seventh grade, the family is close-knit and thriving in the community.

As Tigard embraces its new aquatic director, the future looks bright for the area’s swimming programs. With Ruzicka’s passion and experience steering the ship, it’s safe to say that Tigard’s aquatic offerings are ready to make a splash!

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