The United States Olympic & Paralympic Endowment (USOPE) recently announced the recipients of their annual awards during a ceremony at the New York Athletic Club in New York City. Among the recipients was former USA Swimming Board President Dale Neuburger. Neuburger was honored with the George M. Steinbrenner III Sport Leadership Award, awarded annually to honor outstanding members of the Olympic and Paralympic family who have contributed to sport through management, sport organization endeavors, or the enhancement of competitive opportunities; and who have displayed qualities of leadership, ethical conduct, and dedicated responsibility during a longstanding commitment to sport. 

Dale served USA Swimming in many capacities over the years, notably as Board member, Board Vice President, Board President, Ex Officio Board member for 16 years, and was instrumental in recruiting Chuck Wielgus to USA Swimming.  But his reach extended far beyond the boardroom, as Dale devoted much of his time and attention to the building and sustainment of aquatics facilities, as well as to growing the coaching and competitive athlete pipeline. Dale has served as meet director for the biggest meets in America. He was responsible for bringing the U.S. Olympic Team Trials - Swimming to the Indianapolis University Natatorium three times and led the bid to bring the 2004 FINA World Championships (25m) to Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis – the first World Championships hosted on domestic soil.

Reactions from the USA Swimming Family:

“USA Swimming, alongside World Aquatics, has benefitted many times from the experience and insights Dale offers our sport. He has been instrumental in helping grow swimming here in the United States and abroad. On behalf of all of USA Swimming, I would like to congratulate Dale on this well deserved accolade.”

Tim Hinchey, President and CEO of USA Swimming

“Dale has been an incredible mentor to multiple generations of USA Swimming leaders. His willingness to share his expertise over many decades raised the bar across the entire organization; his professionalism and passion have inspired so many to strive for and achieve greatness.”

Arlene McDonald, multiple-time U.S. Olympic Team Trials Meet Director

 “Dale has always been a friendly face on deck for many years, dating back to my days swimming in Indiana. I wish him massive congratulations on this great honor!”

Lindsay Mintenko, 2-time Olympian and current Managing Director of the USA Swimming National Team

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