Photos: CB East Natatorium Dedication

Just as they do in the hearts of countless alumni, colleagues, and friends, legendary CB East swim coaches Tom Kane and Ed Walsh now have a permanent place in the school's natatorium.

On Dec. 5, a formal dedication ceremony was held on the school's pool deck to celebrate the positive and lasting influence of the two men by naming the natatorium in their honor. Between them, Coach Kane and Coach Walsh served CB East swimmers and their families for nearly a century to produce a combined record of 689-323-9, including many local, regional, and state team and individual titles.

Coach Kane attended the ceremony and shared remarks. Coach Walsh, who passed away in 2023, was represented by his wife, Lonnie, who also addressed the sizable and energetic crowd. CB East Athletic Director Scott Lischer and current CB East swim coach Kevin McCann, who swam under both coaches during his years at CB East, also shared words of gratitude.

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About Coach Kane and Coach Walsh

Tom “T.K.” Kane, a lifelong Doylestown resident and 1967 CB graduate, led the CB East Girls Swim Team from 1976 through 2022, amassing an extraordinary 414-136-7 record. Under his leadership, CB East’s girls’ teams captured 14 District One individual titles, eight Suburban One League Championships, and produced numerous state medalists and All-Americans. A beloved English teacher and longtime department chair, Mr. Kane also served for decades on the District One Swimming Steering Committee, helping shape the sport statewide.

Ed Walsh began coaching at CB East when the school opened in 1969. Over 37 seasons, his teams compiled a record of 275-187-2, earning multiple Suburban One League Division Championships and sending dozens of swimmers to state-level competition. His meticulous coaching style, early-morning practices, and attention to detail inspired respect from athletes and colleagues alike. Known for mentoring hundreds of young lifeguards and swim instructors, Ed continued teaching the sport he loved long after his retirement. He passed away in 2023.

A Tribute to Tradition

“Ed and Tom built more than just successful teams; they built a family," said Kevin McCann, the current CB East head swim coach and a 1998 East graduate who swam under both men. When McCann was inducted into the CB East Hall of Fame in 2008, Coach Walsh offered the remarks at the ceremony. McCann added, "They both dedicated their lives to that pool and to their athletes. They are the reason I came back here to coach.”

CB East Principal Chad Watters said: “The CB East Natatorium dedication honors two legends whose passion, leadership, and commitment shaped generations of swimmers. Their legacy goes far beyond the lanes and lives on through every athlete who had the privilege to learn from them.”