Introduction by Ryan Dwyer ’19

Hello, my name is Ryan Dwyer, class of 2019, and I am proud to present veteran swimmer Rex Aubrey, class of 1953, for induction into the Hall of Fame.

Holding a national record while still in high school is one thing. Qualifying for the finals at the Olympic games before you even enter college is another! This all happened for Rex Aubrey before he attended Williston!To say that Rex Aubrey arrived at Williston in the fall of 1952 with an impressive swim resume would be an understatement!Representing his home country of Australia, Rex held a number of national records and became a finalist at the 1952 Olympic Games held in Helsinki, Finland before he arrived on campus.

Not surprisingly, while attending Williston Academy and swimming for legendary coach Wilmot Babcock, Mr. Aubrey left his mark on our swim history – he was ranked the #1 prep school swimmer in the United States for both the 50 freestyle and the 100 freestyle, while also anchoring the record setting 200 freestyle relay team. Continuing his winning ways, Mr. Aubrey became an NCAA champion while competing for Yale, claiming individual titles in the 50- and 100-yard freestyle events, along with the 400 freestyle relay. Incredibly, at the age of 21, Mr. Aubrey became the world, American, and NCAA record holder in the 100-yard freestyle with a time of 49 seconds flat. Without question, Rex Aubrey was one of, if not the greatest swimmer, in our school’s proud swimming history.After graduating from Yale, Mr. Aubrey devoted his career to remaining in the field of athletics where he coached swimming and directed athletic clubs in Omaha, Nebraska and Detroit, Michigan.Mr. Aubrey currently lives in Michigan with his wife.

Unfortunately, Mr. Aubrey has a family commitment and could not be here today. One of his classmates, Mr. Neill Schoonmaker ‘53, is accepting the award on behalf of his friend and classmate.