Bruce Babin has been named interim head swim coach at Husson University following the resignation of Jeff Wren, who coached the Eagles for two years.
Babin served has an assistant coach on Wren’s staff for two years and also served as an interim head coach for Husson during the 2007-08 season.
In a statement, following the coaching announcement made by Robert Reasso, AD at Husson, Babin said, “I am honored to be named head coach. I’ve worked closely with Jeff for two years and look forward to carrying on the strong tradition he established.”
Wren’s resignation came following consultation with medical providers who advised him to simplify his daily routine. During the summer, Wren sustained a head injury as a result of a biking mishap.
“My recovery has been slower than expected,” said Wren, “and the consensus was that the workload of the school year and the demands of a swim season could further compromise the recovery. I am sorry to have to leave the team at this time. But the team is in good hands with Butch.”
Reflecting on his two years at Husson, Wren noted, “I certainly enjoyed the athletes at Husson. I value the experience. I intend to concentrate on my responsibilities in the school of Education to offer the students the best academic experience possible.”
Wren assumed the responsibilities as director of aquatics and swim coach in 2008-09 following a 37-year coaching tenure at the University of Maine. where he started the the UMaine program and where following Alan Switzer’s resignation assumed duties as men’s coach as well. The young Husson program blossomed markedly under Wren, whose expertise in teaching all levels of stroke mechanics and in applying expertly the concepts of specificity of training resulted in swimmers consistently setting both personal and team records. In fact, last season seven swimmers raced for Husson in the New England Championships.
Babin is a recognized a leader in Maine age-group swimming.
Presently the head coach of the Bangor-area Hurricane Swim Club, Babin was Maine Swimming’s 2010 Coach of the Year and he is a member of Maine Swimming’s Board of Directors. At the conclusion of the last year’s winter age-group season, Babin was selected coach of the Maine Zone Team. In addition to his coaching experience with the Hurricanes, Babin also coached previously at the Bangor YMCA.
Babin will prepare the Eagles for their opening competition, the Blue Jay Pentathlon at St. Joseph College in West Hartford, Conn., scheduled for Oct. 23. A week later, the Eagles compete in a dual meet against St. Joseph’s College in Standish.
Husson’s administration has posted the position as director of aquatics and head women’s swim coach. The posting indicates applications will be accepted until the position is filled.