Castle High School, 1977 – 1981
Jane Coontz swam for Castle High School in Evansville from 1977-81. Jane’s junior year she earned runner-up honors in both the 200 and 500 yard freestyle. She won two state titles as a senior, claiming the 200 and 500-yard freestyle events, both in state record time. Jane’s high school career culminated with the 1980 IHSAA Mental Attitude Award. She was a four-year MVP at Castle High School, held the 200-yard freestyle school record for over 32 years and still holds the 500-yard freestyle record. Jane also earned the Kiwanis Mental Attitude Award at Castle her senior year. In 1980, Jane also claimed titles in record times at the Junior National Championships 800 and 1500-meter freestyles. Following that event, the mayor of Evansville awarded Jane the Key to the City of Evansville. She earned a Top 15 world ranking in the 1500-freestyle and was named 1980 and 1982 Indiana Swimmer of the Year. Jane participated in the 1981 and 1982 National Sports Festivals, the 1983 World University Games, and the 1984 Olympic Trials. She went on to swim at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale (SIU-C). There Jane was a four-year All-American in 15 events and set 12 school records. Her team finished in the top 10 at the national championships all four years, including third at AIAW championships her freshman year and fifth at NCAA championships her senior year. Jane was also a Swimming World Academic All-American and inducted into the SIU-C Hall of Fame in 1991. Jane and her husband, Kevin have two children, Zachary & Samuel, and live in Evansville.