West Chester University Athletics

The only member of West Chester’s hall of fame class that didn’t graduate from the institution, Charles Graham left an indelible mark on the university as both a professor and coach of six different sports from 1936 until his untimely death in 1951. Graham is perhaps most associated with the school’s swimming and diving program, which he began back in 1936. West Chester University’s nationally ranked swimming programs currently compete in the Graham Natatorium, named for Charles Graham and dedicated in his honor in 1995.

Graham authored a 52-49 record as mentor of the swimming team at WCU. He started the Mid-Atlantic Swimming Conference while coaching the Golden Rams’ swimmers. Graham is also credited with beginning the swimming program at Williams College in Williamstown, Mass., as well as the New England Swimming Conference during his time there. A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y., Graham also led the West Chester cross country team to three undefeated campaigns in 1943, 1947 and 1948. He compiled a career record of 48-19-1 while heading up the harriers at WCU between 1939-50. Graham also registered a 13-11-3 record as head coach of the men’s soccer squad from 1942-45.