Hall of Fame
Before even coming to Norwich University, Ben Courtney, a Vermont swimmer, was an athlete to watch. With his natural talent and hard work, he was shaping up to be a force.
“I immediately knew he would make an impact,” said current Head Coach Jennifer Cournoyer, about hearing Ben would be attending Norwich. “From looking on the outside, he certainly did that.”
Ben Courtney was a dominant force in the pool, where he was named to the All-New England Team all four seasons. During his first season with the Cadets, Ben swept his individual events at the (NEISDA) New England Intercollegiate Swimming and Diving Association Championship in the 500, 100, and 200 backstroke.
He continued to capture the title of New England Champion in 2007 in the 100 backstroke and in 2008 in both the 50 and 100 back. Courtney logged himself in the Norwich record books, holding school records in the 50, 100, and 200 back and the 400 and 800 free relay. He also helped to set the pool record in the 400 free relay. If you look at the record board today, you realize the talent Ben possessed as he has one of the longest-standing records; his record in the 100 backstroke (53.16) has been eyed by many but still stands.
Courtney capped off his stellar career at the New England Championships, winning two races and placing third in another. He received the “Senior High- Point Swimmer” Bob Muir award at NEISDAs for the most points accumulated over four years.
Courtney also qualified and was a team member of the first men’s team’s appearance at ECACs, where they finished 14th out of 21 teams.
His senior season, Courtney also earned the Roy Looke Award, which goes to the senior who has distinguished himself or herself athletically and academically and led as a civilian.
Not only was Courtney an outstanding, talented swimmer, diverse in his backstroke and freestyle events where he was a significant part of relays, but he also demonstrated the desire to be the best team, which is evident in being elected team captain both his junior and senior seasons.
