The term “legend” can be used to describe someone who accomplishes and will be remembered for an astounding feat. In Swisegood’s case, “legend” might be an understatement. Swisegood began his coaching career in 1956 after returning from military service in Korea. He coached at Plymouth High School for 25 years, racking up 417 wins and two regional championships. Swisegood then went on to coach at Southeastern High School for 26 years, adding another 453 victories and eight more regional championships to his résumé.

Swisegood is now in his second year of coaching the Central Southeastern Co-Op baseball team in Augusta, Ill., and he is only one win away from passing Kaiser on the all-time win list. Kaiser attained his 892 wins coaching at Oak Park River Forest from 1953-2000.

 “It’s something you know I’ll cherish if it happens,” Swisegood said. “There’s no question about that. But we’re just trying to win ballgames.” Swisegood’s passion for the game has also remained strong throughout his 52 years.

“I just love the sport and I love the kids,” Swisegood said. “I’ve been very, very lucky to have good health and the old years just kind of rolled by.”

Swisegood, who described himself as not much of a record buff, said he was first made aware of his win total and record possibility in 2004 when he was inducted into the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. The Suns’ head coach will take his first shot at win No. 893 on Monday against Lewistown.

 “Every time I put that uniform on it means something to me,” Swisegood said. “I just enjoy the game. I just enjoy being out there.”

{gallery}coachbios/swise{/gallery} Dave Swisegood (CSE): 892-480 record - .650 winning percentage - 10 regional championships

2008:     6-4 record

Upcoming games:
Mon., April 7 @ Lewistown, 4:30 p.m.
Tues., April 8 @ Pittsfield, 4:30 p.m.
Wed., April 9 vs. Payson, 4:30 p.m

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