POTSDAM, N.Y.—SUNY Potsdam Director of Athletics Mark Misiak has announced that Jeremy LaClaire has been elevated to head coach of the Bears swimming and diving teams.
 
"Jeremy is the perfect person to lead our swimming and diving program, and I'm supremely confident that our student-athletes will reach new levels of performance under his guidance," said Misiak. "I'm excited for the future of Potsdam Bears swimming and diving."
 
LaClaire served as the teams' assistant coach for the last two seasons, participating in all aspects of running the programs.
 
"It is a privilege and a dream come true having the opportunity to coach the team I was a member of once," said LaClaire." SUNY Potsdam Swimming and Diving has been my home for many years and thanks to many amazing coaches, teammates and faculty, it helped shape me into the person I am today. I want to thank my athletes, the administration and the community for trusting me with the program I hold so dear."
 
LaClaire brings a lifelong passion for swimming and a strong background in the sport to Potsdam. As an athlete, he competed in club swimming from elementary school through high school and participated in modified swimming, varsity swimming and diving. LaClaire is a North Country native and a graduate of Lowville Academy. He continued his career at the collegiate level, competing as a diver for the Bears for three seasons. LaClaire is excited to continue the work he started two years ago in his new position.
 
"Our goal is to continue to develop swimmers who have drive and passion, both in academics as well as athletics, and give them an environment where every person feels safe to grow as individuals," LaClaire said. "I can't wait to work with the team, alumni, supporters and local community to keep moving SUNY Potsdam Swimming and Diving forward, 25 yards at a time."
 
The Bears open the season at the Cortland Relays on October 10.