When you look at Fieldston's glistening new pool it symbolizes so much of what Paul did for our community. He took what was an undedicated rag tag group who were last in the league every year and transformed them into a close-knit community of diligent swimmers who engaged in challenging practices during mornings and afternoons - who actually became a force in the league - no longer the last place slackers. But for us Paul was so much more than just the coach who turned our program around.
The key word to describe Paul was unique. He had talents and abilities that were both rare and remarkable. There were his unbelievable urban navigation skills which brought him to multiple boroughs daily. This navigation was not facilitated by cars keys but with a metro card and his puffy vest pockets over flowing with bus schedules and subway maps.
Paul's sharp mind provided him with an uncanny swiftness in split calculations. He was able to take this data and carefully craft best times spreadsheets and then carefully craft workouts which allowed those best times to get faster and faster.
Paul had truly mastered his routine however even beyond his impressive diligence he had yet another talent. Paul was able to not just teach people but he actually learned the people he knew. Just as he immersed himself into his actual labor- he delved into the personalities of each swimmer and manager too. He knew which swimmers needed work on their flip turns or their kick but also understood each swimmers' shenanigans and character. And even though Paul was incredibly professional there was no coldness from him whatsoever. There was in fact a warmth from him that was expounded through his no-nonsense honestly and playful quips which had an ability to lighten up even the most excruciating of practices.
As I look through this group before me and see so many faces I don't know, it shows that this honesty and these playful quips touched so many people. Paul affected so many people and he had a place in his life for so many people. Each of these connections was enriched with his dedication and loyalty.
Even in the darkest times of his illness Paul hoped to still have a part in coaching his Fieldston team. When he came to practice and told us of his illness it was very scary- very scary to see his pain. Though Paul was not the biggest guy, he had a strength that he was always there, no matter what the conditions, no matter what the situation- he was always willing to dedicate hours of his day to improve us as swimmers and as people. It was scary to see that this invincibility could wane, but it was also incredible. Incredible that he hoped to still lead us and encourage us despite all the suffering he was enduring.
While Paul never made it to another practice he is still here with us. He is still with us through the new pool, his brainchild. He stays with us with the initials PF we write on our backs in sharpie marker each meet. He also stays with us through his dear friend Len Galluzzi who coached us this season, but most of all he is still with us through his inspiration which will undoubtedly stay with those he touched forever.
Paul always said, "you've gotta swim fast to swim fast" and this not only serves as one of Paul's favorite mottos but beyond that it expressed honesty, diligence and a twist of humor that made Paul utterly unforgettable.