Ted Brown, Jr.

Ted Brown graduated from Western High School as its most decorated athlete in IHSAA state tournament competition before carving out a brilliant swimming career at the University of Notre Dame.

Brown ran roughshod over the regular season, conference and sectional competition much of his career. He qualified for the IHSAA state championships all four years, making his presence known at state as a sophomore, taking sixth in the 200-yard freestyle and fifth in his signature event, the 500-yard freestyle. As a junior, he moved closer to the top with a fourth place finish at 200 yards and a second spot at 500 yards. As a senior, he won it all, claiming state titles in the 200-yard individual medley and the 500 freestyle, winning the latter event by nearly five seconds. At the meet’s conclusion, Brown was presented the IHSAA’s Mental Attitude Award for outstanding athletic and academic achievements.

Brown’s competition level stepped up considerably at Notre Dame, but still he was a top-level performer. Over four seasons, Brown captured 63 career victories while the Irish compiled an overall 39-14 won-lost record. In Big East meet competition, ND claimed two championships and two runners-up spots and Brown was a 10-time all-conference selection in four events.

A four-time Big East All-Academic selection, Brown left ND with an impressive list of awards. He was named outstanding freshman in 2004 and team MVP in 2007. Following his senior season, Brown claimed the Blanchard Award for performance, inspiration and leadership and the Knute Rockne Student Athlete Award.

He also received a prestigious Kanaley Award, presented to five ND seniors who have been most exemplary as students and leaders.