Famous American Divers

Steele Johnson is an accomplished American diver known for his success at various levels of competition. His achievements include winning multiple national titles in both junior and college divisions. Johnson made his mark on the international stage by winning a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics in the men's synchronized platform diving event. He is a six-time senior national champion with USA Diving and has also excelled in junior competitions, winning numerous titles and championships. Johnson's professional career is defined by his skill, dedication, and success in the world of diving.

Victoria "Vicki" Manalo Draves was a trailblazing Filipino American competitive diver who achieved remarkable success at the 1948 Summer Olympics in London. She made history by becoming the first woman to win gold medals in both the ten-meter platform and the three-meter springboard diving events. Draves further cemented her legacy by becoming the first American woman to secure dual gold medals in diving and the first Asian American to claim Olympic gold. Her groundbreaking achievements helped pave the way for future generations of divers.

Jordan Windle is a pioneering Cambodian-born American diver who made history as the first diver of Cambodian descent to compete in the Olympics. Throughout his professional career, he has demonstrated exceptional skill, determination, and perseverance in the sport of diving. His achievements have not only broken barriers but also inspired others to pursue their dreams. Windle's dedication to his craft and commitment to excellence have solidified his reputation as a talented and trailblazing athlete in the world of diving.

Jon Lindbergh was an influential figure in the field of underwater diving. He served as a United States Navy demolition expert and commercial diver, showcasing his expertise in the underwater realm. Lindbergh's legacy includes being among the earliest aquanauts in the 1960s and a pioneer in cave diving. His contributions to the diving community were significant, and his work helped advance the exploration and understanding of underwater environments. Lindbergh's professional journey was marked by innovation, skill, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of diving exploration.

Kassidy Cook is an accomplished American diver who has represented the United States on the national diving team. She narrowly missed out on competing in the 2012 Summer Olympics but later participated in the 2016 Summer Olympics, achieving 13th place in the women's 3-meter springboard event. Cook's hard work and dedication paid off in the 2024 Summer Olympics when she secured a silver medal in the women's synchronized 3-meter springboard alongside her partner, Sarah Bacon. Her journey is a testament to her skill and resilience in the world of competitive diving.

Rick Charls is a former American high diver known for holding the world record for the highest dive of 172 feet (52 meters). He was a high school and collegiate All-American diver from Cincinnati, Ohio, and a two-time Mid-American Conference diving champion at Ohio University. Charls achieved his record-breaking dive at SeaWorld San Diego, which was televised on ABC's Wide World of Sports. He also received recognition for his accomplishments in tandem high diving championships and acrobatic high diving competitions.

Marjorie Gestring was a successful competitive springboard diver from the United States. She made history by winning an Olympic gold medal at the age of 13, becoming the youngest person ever to achieve this feat at the time. Gestring continued her diving career, becoming a multi-time national champion in the United States. She was recognized for her talent and dedication with induction into both the International Swimming Hall of Fame and the Stanford Athletic Hall of Fame.

Nicholas Lawrence Mevoli III was an accomplished American freediver known for his passion and skill in the sport. He tragically passed away during a freediving competition while aiming to set an American record at the Vertical Blue event in the Bahamas. Mevoli's dedication to pushing his limits in the water was evident through his participation in competitive freediving events, where he aimed to achieve new milestones. His legacy continues to inspire and remind the freediving community of the importance of safety and respect for the sport.

Michael Hixon is a highly accomplished American diver, known for his exceptional skills in the men's synchronized 3-meter springboard event. He has achieved significant success at the Olympic level, winning silver medals at both the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. Hixon's precision and technique have made him a formidable competitor in the world of diving, earning him a reputation as a top-tier athlete in the sport.

Colonel Frank Allen Kurtz Jr. was a versatile professional who excelled in both sports and aviation. He was an accomplished Olympic diver, showcasing his athletic prowess on an international stage. Transitioning into a distinguished military career, he became an aviator in the United States Army Air Forces. Kurtz's skills and dedication led to significant contributions in the field of aviation, demonstrating his commitment to excellence and service to his country through his dual roles as an athlete and military officer.

Troy Dumais is a renowned American competitive diver hailing from California. Throughout his illustrious career, he has represented the United States in four Olympic Games, achieving notable success by clinching a team bronze medal in synchronized 3m diving during the 2012 Olympics. Notably, he further honed his skills at the University of Texas at Austin. Dumais is widely respected for his exceptional talent, dedication, and contributions to the sport of diving on both national and international platforms.

Abigail Johnston is a former Olympic diver, known for winning a silver medal in the Women's synchronized 3 meter springboard at the 2012 Summer Olympics. She also competed in the individual 3 meter springboard event at the 2016 Olympics. Apart from her athletic achievements, Johnston pursued higher education and earned a bachelor's degree from Duke University. During the 2016 Summer Olympics, she was a medical student at Duke University School of Medicine, on track to graduate as a medical doctor in 2018.

Kristian Ipsen is an accomplished American diver who has been competing since 1998. He has achieved notable success in synchronized diving, winning a silver medal at the 2009 World Aquatics Championships and a bronze medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics alongside Troy Dumais. Ipsen's dedication and skill in the sport have led to numerous accolades and recognition on the international stage. His consistent performance and teamwork have solidified his reputation as a top diver in the competitive diving world.

Cynthia "Cindy" Ann Potter is an accomplished American former Olympic diver and diving color commentator. She represented the United States in three Olympic diving teams and achieved great success, notably winning a bronze medal in the 3m springboard event in 1976. Throughout her career, Potter displayed exceptional skill and dedication to her sport, earning recognition as a top athlete in the diving world. Following her competitive diving days, she transitioned into a successful career as a diving color commentator, sharing her expertise with audiences worldwide.

Dana Kunze is an accomplished American high-diver renowned for holding world records for the highest dives. Starting his professional high diving career at the age of 13, he quickly rose to prominence, winning his first world championship in 1977 and maintaining a winning streak for seven years. In 1985, Kunze established Water Show Productions, a company specializing in high dive-themed aquatic shows. His expertise in high diving has not only earned him accolades but also allowed him to share his passion through captivating performances.

Jessica Parratto is a highly accomplished American diver, holding the title of eight-time USA Diving National Champion in women's platform and platform synchro. She made her debut on the world stage at the 2015 World Aquatics Championships. Notably, Parratto placed 10th in the Women's 10m Platform at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio. Her success continued at the 2020 Summer Olympics, where she secured a historic second-place finish in the Women's Synchronized Platform event, marking a significant milestone for the United States in diving.

Professor Splash, also known as Darren Taylor, is an American show diver renowned for breaking high diving records in small pools. He holds the Guinness World Records for the highest shallow water dive. Taylor has appeared on various TV shows such as The History Channel's Stan Lee's Superhumans, Discovery Channel's Time Warp, and NBC's America's Got Talent, where he set a new world record. He has also been featured on shows in the U.K., Ukraine, Russia, and Czech Republic. In the second season of the Go-Big Show, he finished in second place.

Lawrence Edwin Andreasen, known as Larry, was an accomplished American diver who made his mark in the sport during the 1960s. He represented the United States at the 1964 Summer Olympics in Tokyo, where he demonstrated his skill and determination by earning a bronze medal in springboard diving. Andreasen's dedication to his craft and his ability to perform under pressure solidified his reputation as a talented and respected diver on the international stage.

Nick McCrory is an accomplished American psychiatrist and former diver who made notable achievements in the sport from 2007 to 2014. He won various medals in international competitions, including a silver at the World Junior Championship in 2006. McCrory also excelled at the collegiate level, earning multiple accolades during his time at Duke University. After retiring from diving in 2014, he shifted his focus to pursuing medical studies. McCrory's successful career in diving and subsequent transition to psychiatry exemplify his versatile skill set and dedication to continuous growth.

Luis Marden was a versatile American professional with a remarkable career in exploration, photography, writing, filmmaking, navigation, diving, and linguistics. His significant contributions to National Geographic Magazine entailed the creation of over 60 articles, showcasing his expertise and passion for capturing the world's wonders. Marden's impact extended beyond journalism, as he made notable scientific discoveries during his expeditions. His multidisciplinary approach and dedication to exploration and communication left a lasting legacy in the fields of geography, photography, and scientific research.

Donna M. Tobias was a pioneering American diver known for breaking barriers in the United States Navy. She made history as the Navy's first female deep-sea diver, showcasing exceptional skill and determination in a male-dominated field. Through her remarkable career, Tobias demonstrated courage and expertise in challenging underwater environments, inspiring future generations of divers. Her contributions to the diving industry left a lasting impact, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer and role model for aspiring divers around the world.

Randy Dickison was a high diver known for his daring attempts at setting world records for high dives. He attended Phillips Junior High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he met future high diver Dana Kunze. In 1982, Dickison executed a 30m dive landing head first. He made several attempts at world records for highest dives, reaching heights of up to 53 meters. Unfortunately, his pursuit of the high diving world record in 1985 resulted in a serious leg injury. Tragically, Dickison passed away during a stunt dive in Belgium in 1996.

Jennifer Chandler is a retired American diver with a successful career marked by numerous achievements. She won gold at the 1976 Summer Olympics, as well as at the 1975 Pan American Games and bronze at the 1978 World Aquatics Championships. Chandler is a seven-time national diving champion and has been inducted into prestigious halls of fame. Her post-diving career includes roles as an expert commentator, educational outreach director, and positions in development and community outreach at various organizations, showcasing her dedication to sports and community involvement.

Sarah Bacon is a highly accomplished American diver known for her success in the sport. She made a significant mark in her career by securing her first Olympic medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics, where she won a silver medal in the women's synchronized 3 metre springboard event alongside her partner Kassidy Cook. Bacon's skill, dedication, and hard work have propelled her to the top tier of divers globally, earning her recognition and respect in the competitive world of diving.

Sam Dorman is a retired American diver known for his impressive career achievements. He gained recognition for representing the United States at the 2016 Summer Olympics, where he secured a silver medal in the 3-meter springboard synchro event alongside his diving partner, Michael Hixon. Dorman's professional journey was marked by his dedication to the sport and his notable performance at the international level. Additionally, he furthered his education at the University of Miami, showcasing a well-rounded approach to his athletic pursuits.

Brittany Ann Viola is a successful American platform diver with notable achievements in the sport. She won NCAA championships in diving's ten-meter platform in 2008 and 2011. Viola has represented the United States at various international competitions, including the World Aquatics Championships. She fulfilled her Olympic dream by securing a spot on the U.S. Olympic diving team in 2012. Viola has also been actively involved in leadership roles within the Student Athlete Advisor Committee, showcasing her commitment to both athletics and academics.

Maxine Joyce "Micki" King is an American former competitive diver and diving coach who achieved great success in the sport. She won a gold medal at the 1972 Summer Olympics and was a dominant figure in women's diving in the United States from 1965 to 1972, winning numerous national championships. King served as a career officer in the United States Air Force and became the first woman to coach a male athlete to an NCAA championship. She has been recognized with inductions into several prestigious sports halls of fame.

Kelly McCormick is a retired female diver from the United States who twice competed at the Summer Olympics, winning a silver and a bronze medal in the Women's 3m Springboard event. She is a former elite gymnast who transitioned to diving, eventually becoming a major figure of international status. McCormick has won numerous national championships and accolades, including a gold medal at the Pan American Games. She now coaches at the King County Aquatic Center in Federal Way, WA, where she had her last meet.

Aileen Riggin was a versatile professional with accomplishments in swimming and diving. She achieved Olympic success in springboard diving in 1920 and continued to dominate as the U.S. national champion for several years. Transitioning into a post-competition career, she excelled in various fields such as acting, coaching, writing, and journalism. A prominent figure in the swimming community, Riggin remained active as an ambassador for women's swimming well into her later years, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.

Hal Haig Prieste was an accomplished American athlete who participated in the 1920 Summer Olympics in Antwerp as a diver. He won a bronze medal in platform diving as a member of the 1920 US Olympic team. Prieste became known for his daring prank of stealing the original five-interlocking-ring Olympic flag at the Antwerp Olympics, which he kept hidden in his suitcase for 77 years. He made headlines by returning the flag to the IOC at the age of 103 during a special ceremony at the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney. Prieste's legacy includes being the world's oldest former Olympic medalist at the time of his death at 104, and the first Olympian to have lived across three centuries (1896–2001).

Wendy Lucero-Schayes, a retired diver from the United States, had a successful professional career both in and out of the pool. She competed at the 1988 Summer Olympics and won numerous titles, including nine U.S. springboard titles, three U.S. Olympic Festival titles, and a World Championship silver medal. Lucero-Schayes was named Diver of the Year in 1990 and 1991. She later transitioned to sports broadcasting for major networks and was inducted into the Colorado Sportswoman Hall of Fame for her contributions to the world of diving.

Samuel "Sam" Wesley Hall was a prominent figure in both sports and politics. As an Olympic silver medalist diver, he showcased his talent and dedication on the international stage. Transitioning into politics, he served as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives, where he worked to advocate for his constituents and address key issues impacting the state. Throughout his professional life, Sam Hall demonstrated versatility and a commitment to excellence in both his athletic and political endeavors.

Laura Ryan is an accomplished American international diver known for her expertise in one and three meter individual springboard diving, 10 meter platform diving, and three meter synchronized springboard events. She honed her skills during her collegiate career at Indiana University and the University of Georgia, where she excelled and became a two-time NCAA champion. With a strong background in competitive diving, Laura continues to make a mark in the professional diving world with her impressive performances and dedication to the sport.

Mary Ellen Clark is an accomplished American diver known for her success in the sport at the Olympic level. She achieved Olympic bronze medals in diving at both the 1992 and 1996 Summer Olympics, showcasing her exceptional skills and dedication to the sport. Throughout her career, Clark has demonstrated remarkable talent, determination, and perseverance, inspiring others with her achievements in the competitive world of diving. Her legacy as a successful Olympic diver continues to be celebrated within the diving community and beyond.

James Raymond Talacek is an American professional aquanaut affiliated with the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). He holds the role of Oceanographic Field Operations Manager at Aquarius Reef Base, which is renowned as the world's sole undersea research laboratory. With a focus on underwater exploration and scientific research, Talacek plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating field operations at Aquarius Reef Base, contributing significantly to the advancement of marine science and underwater studies.

Pete Desjardins was an accomplished American diver who competed in the 1924 and 1928 Summer Olympics, winning multiple medals in diving events. He studied economics at Stanford University and later became a professional diver, performing in swimming exhibitions such as Billy Rose's Aquacade alongside notable athletes. Despite never winning a collegiate championship, Desjardins continued to showcase his diving skills in various shows and exhibitions until the 1960s, leaving a lasting impact on the world of diving.

Michael Galitzen, also known as Mickey Riley, was an American diver who achieved great success in the sport, winning a total of four Olympic medals. He gained recognition for his individual diving skills as well as his tandem diving performances with his brother John. Following his Olympic achievements, he transitioned into a career as a film editor and continued to showcase his diving talents in various shows. Galitzen's contributions to the sport were honored with his induction into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1977.

Marshall Wayne was a distinguished American diver, known for his remarkable achievements in the sport. He gained recognition for his participation in the 1936 Summer Olympics, where he showcased his exceptional diving skills on a global platform. Throughout his professional career, Wayne demonstrated a high level of dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship, earning respect from his peers and fans alike. His contributions to the diving community left a lasting impact, inspiring future generations of divers to strive for excellence in the sport.

Georgia V. Coleman was an accomplished American diver who competed in the 3 m springboard and 10 m platform events at the 1928 and 1932 Olympics. Throughout her career, she earned one gold, one bronze, and two silver medals at the Olympics, showcasing her skills and talent in diving. She also achieved success domestically by winning a total of 11 AAU titles. Despite facing challenges like contracting polio in 1937, Coleman continued to persevere and even relearned how to swim before tragically passing away at the age of twenty-eight.

Albert Cosad "Al" White was an accomplished American diver who achieved success both at the collegiate and Olympic levels. He competed for Stanford University, where he was a standout member of the gymnastics team and led them to a conference championship. In the 1924 Summer Olympics, White showcased his diving prowess by winning gold medals in both the 3 m springboard and 10 m platform events. His impressive performances solidified his reputation as a skilled and talented athlete in the world of diving.

Greg Louganis is an American Olympic diver known for his exceptional achievements in diving. He won gold medals in both the springboard and platform events at the 1984 and 1988 Summer Olympics, making him the only man and second diver to accomplish this feat in Olympic history. Louganis has been hailed as the greatest American diver and possibly the greatest diver in history due to his remarkable skill and dominance in the sport. His legacy is defined by his unparalleled success and contributions to the world of diving.

David Alasdair Boudia is an accomplished American diver who has had a successful career in the sport. He has won multiple Olympic medals in the 10-metre platform diving competition, including a gold medal at the 2012 Summer Olympics and a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics. Boudia has also demonstrated his skill in synchronized diving, earning a bronze medal with Nick McCrory in 2012 and a silver medal with Steele Johnson in 2016. His achievements highlight his talent and dedication to the sport of diving.

Sammy Lee was an accomplished American physician and diver, known for his groundbreaking achievements in Olympic platform diving. He made history as the first Asian American man to win an Olympic gold medal for the United States and also became the first man to win consecutive gold medals in Olympic platform diving. His legacy extends beyond the sporting arena, as he went on to have a successful career in medicine, showcasing his dedication and talent in both athletics and healthcare.

Laura Ann Wilkinson is an accomplished American diver, renowned for her exceptional career in the sport. As a three-time Olympian and Olympic gold medalist, she has left an indelible mark on diving history. Wilkinson made history by becoming the first woman to secure all three major diving world titles. After retiring in 2008, she made a remarkable comeback in 2017, showcasing her enduring passion and talent for diving. Wilkinson's dedication to her sport is evident in her training and pursuit of Olympic excellence, exemplifying a true champion's spirit.

Bruce D. Kimball is an accomplished American diver and coach, known for his success in the sport. His notable achievement includes winning a silver medal for the 10 meter platform at the 1984 Summer Olympics. Kimball has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication throughout his career, inspiring many aspiring divers. In addition to his achievements as an athlete, Kimball has also made significant contributions as a coach, mentoring and shaping the careers of future diving talents. His professional journey reflects a deep passion for diving and a commitment to excellence.

Mark Lenzi was a prominent American Olympic diver and diving coach known for his exceptional achievements in the sport. He won a gold medal in the 1992 Olympic Games and a bronze medal in the 1996 Olympic Games on the 3 m springboard. Lenzi made history as the first American diver to execute a 109C dive in competition and the first to score over 100 points in a competition with a 307C dive. His legacy in the diving world remains unparalleled.

Patricia Joan Keller McCormick was a trailblazing American competitive diver who achieved Olympic gold in 1952 and 1956. Known for her daring dives, she captivated audiences and won the prestigious James E. Sullivan Award in 1956. Beyond her athletic prowess, McCormick dedicated herself to inspiring youth through her "Pat's Champs" foundation. She continued to contribute to the sport of diving post-Olympics, touring and modeling for top swimwear brands. McCormick's legacy as a pioneering athlete and mentor lives on.

Thomas Finchum is a versatile individual who has successfully transitioned from being an accomplished platform diver to an aspiring country musician. He represented the United States at the 2008 Olympics and later retired from diving in 2012 to focus on his music career. Finchum's dedication and talent have allowed him to pursue his passion for music, showcasing his adaptability and determination in the face of new challenges. His professional journey reflects a commitment to pursuing his dreams and exploring different creative avenues.

Kelci Bryant is an accomplished American diver known for competing in the 3 m synchronized springboard event. She represented the United States in the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, narrowly missing a medal with partner Ariel Rittenhouse. Bryant achieved greater success in the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, winning a silver medal alongside Abigail Johnston. Her impressive career also includes two NCAA championship titles and diving for the University of Minnesota. Bryant's skill and dedication have solidified her reputation as a top diver on the international stage.

Phil Boggs was a successful diver and Olympic gold medalist from the United States, known for winning the 3 m springboard event at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal. After graduating from Florida State University, he served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and later became an instructor at the U.S. Air Force Academy. He pursued a career in law, graduating from the University of Michigan Law School in 1979. Boggs was also inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame for his achievements in diving.

Bob Webster is a retired American diver known for his dominance in the 10 m platform event from 1960 to 1964, winning at the Olympics and Pan American Games. He transitioned to coaching at prestigious universities such as the University of Minnesota, Princeton, and the University of Alabama. Recognized for his achievements, he was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1970 and the University of Michigan Athletic Hall of Honor in 1989.

Scott Richard Donie is an accomplished American diver with a successful career in the sport. He has represented the US National Diving team and competed in multiple Olympic Games, earning a silver medal in 1992. Donie has also excelled in coaching, serving as the Head Diving Coach at New York University and currently at Columbia University. Throughout his coaching career, he has mentored numerous All-Americans and demonstrated his expertise in the field of diving.

Kenneth Sitzberger was an accomplished American diver, known for his success in competitions such as the Pan American Games and the Olympics. He excelled in both 1-meter and 3-meter springboard events, winning multiple championships during his time at Indiana University. Sitzberger later transitioned to a career as a sports commentator for ABC, where he shared his expertise and passion for the sport. Despite his untimely death at a relatively young age, his contributions to diving were recognized with an induction into the International Swimming Hall of Fame.

Kent Monroe Ferguson is a retired diver from the United States who achieved success in various international diving competitions. He competed at the 1992 Summer Olympics, securing fifth place in the men's 3 m springboard event. Ferguson notably won the gold medal in the same event at the 1991 Pan American Games in Havana, Cuba, and at the 1991 World Aquatics Championships in Perth, Australia. His professional career was characterized by excellence and remarkable achievements in the field of diving at the international level.

George Herbert Sheldon was an American diver and eye doctor from St. Louis, MO. He studied at the Barnes Medical College in St. Louis. Sheldon faced health challenges due to a weak heart throughout his life. In the 1904 Olympics, he won the gold medal in platform diving. He also won the National AAU diving championships in 1905. Despite his success, his diving career was cut short by his heart problems. Sheldon was honored posthumously by the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1989 for his pioneering contributions to diving.

Jevon Tarantino is an accomplished American springboard diver known for his impressive career achievements. He has been a part of the Fort Lauderdale Diving Team under the guidance of coach David Burgering. With a seven-year tenure in the US National Team, he has represented the country at the 2008 Olympic Games. Tarantino's list of accolades includes five Junior National Championships, four Senior National Championships, the 2004 SEC Championship, the 2004 NCAA Championship, and memberships in the 2005 and 2006 World Championship teams.

William Eugene "Billy" Dickey was an accomplished American diver who made his mark at the 1904 Summer Olympics. His expertise and skill in the sport were evident when he clinched a gold medal in the plunge for distance event. Dickey's dedication to diving and his exceptional performance on the Olympic stage solidified his reputation as a top athlete in his field during that era. His legacy as an Olympic gold medalist continues to inspire aspiring divers and sports enthusiasts worldwide.

Dorothy Poynton-Hill was a renowned American diver who achieved significant success in the sport, competing at multiple Summer Olympics and winning medals in both the 10 m platform and 3 m springboard events. Following her retirement from competitive diving, she transitioned into coaching by running an aquatic club in Los Angeles. Additionally, Poynton-Hill ventured into the world of media by appearing in television commercials. Her outstanding contributions to the sport were recognized when she was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1968.