Upon his graduation in 1977, Rick Durstein departed as Grove City College’s most decorated swimmer. A standout performer in the butterfly and individual medley, Durstein earned nine NCAA All-America citations.
He achieved All-America status as a sophomore in the 200 IM and on the 400 and 800 freestyle relays. His efforts contributed to the team’s 13th place finish against the nation’s elite at the NCAA Championships.
As a junior, Durstein extended his 6-foot-4 frame to record Grove City’s best-ever individual finish at the NCAAs to that point by capturing second in the 100 butterfly. He added more laurels by helping the 400 medley relay and 400 and 800 free relay teams achieve All-America.
The Wolverines placed 11th nationally, which represented their best finish in the new Division III era.
In the 1976-77 prospectus, head coach Jim Longnecker said, “Durstein is one of the most talented and conscientious swimmers in the history of the school.” He closed his collegiate career by finishing fifth nationally in the 100 fly and he earned his ninth All-America award with the 400 medley relay team in 1977.
Before coming to Grove City, Rick starred at North Allegheny High School. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and entered the Men’s Swimming and Diving Hall of fame in 1989.
