Bill Smyth, who is credited with the outstanding development of the University of Virginia men's and women's swimming programs as the Cavavliers' head assistant coach during the past eight years, has been named head coach of Boston University's men's and women's swimming teams.

"We are very excited that Bill Smyth, a world class coach and competitor, will be joining the Boston University athletic family," Boston University Director of Athletics Mike Lynch said in making the announcement today. "This is another step forward for Terrier Athletics, we are confident that Bill will bring the expertise and guidance to lead our men's and women's swimming programs to the next level."

"It will be an honor to be working at Boston University. The people I met during the interview process were the deciding factor," said Smyth. "With the new pool at the Fitness and Recreation Center, Boston University and the athletic department have taken a major step in their commitment to excellence, not just in the America East Conference but on the national level as well."

"The past eight years at UVa have been a dream come true thanks to Mark Bernardino and the Virginia Swimming family," said Smyth. "I am honored to have played a role in the success of Virginia Swimming over the past eight years and will continue to do what I can to help the fine tradition that we have established, albeit in a different capacity. It was truly a pleasure to coach such a fine group of young men and women, and although I will miss them deeply, I am confident that they will continue to grow as swimmers and as people."

During the 2004-05 season, the Virginia men's team won its school-record seventh consecutive Atlantic Coast Conference title and finished 13th overall at the NCAAs. Smyth, a native of Norristown, Pa., coached a pair of swimmers who earned first-team All-America honors. In addition, the women's team was second at the ACC meet after winning the team title the previous two years.

"Bill Smyth is to be thanked and commended for his outstanding contributions to Virginia swimming and diving and the lives of the student-athletes," said Bernardino, who just completed his 27th season as UVa's head swimming and diving coach. "He is one of the premier distance coaches in America and has been widely regarded in collegiate swimming circles as one of the top assistant coaches in Division I swimming. His many contributions as a student-athlete and coach at his alma mater speak for themselves and Boston University is fortunate to have placed their faith and fortunes in such capable hands.

"For certain, Bill will continue to bring energy, vitality and creativity to his team on a daily basis. He will be missed as a friend and colleague, but is well-prepared and ready for the next step in his coaching journey."

"Bill Smyth is the finest distance coach in all of college swimming," said Virginia head coach Mark Bernardino, who was also Smyth's collegiate coach.

Smyth, who will assume his new position on July 1, takes over from Reagh Wetmore, who retired at the conclusion of the 2004-05 season. Wetmore has served as the Terriers' head coach since the inception of both programs 30 years ago.