ALBUQUEUQUE, N.M. — Kunio Kono, who has served as the head coach of the swimming & diving program at The University of New Mexico for the past four years, has announced that he is resigning that position effective immediately. Jake Tapp, Kono’s assistant, has been named the interim head coach.
Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs has announced that a national search will be conducted to hire Kono’s replacement.
“It has been a great honor to serve as UNM head swimming and diving coach for last four years,” said Kono. “We accomplished to break every single school record, not only in the pool but academically.”
He added, “I appreciate our Albuquerque community and alumni members that have supported our program. It is sad to leave this amazing family, but I know the program will grow and continue to succeed with great student-athletes, staff and families. Once a Lobo, always a Lobo!”
Kono will be moving back to Japan to tend to personal family matters. He was believed to be the first native of Japan to coach a Division I team, according to the website swimswam.com.
Kono in his four years went 19-11 in dual meets, including a perfect 4-0 record against New Mexico State. His teams’ best finish in the Mountain West championships was fifth in 2014.
Kunio Kono Steps Down as Swimming & Diving Head Coach
