Ramapo College of New Jersey Athletics

Coach David Turnage can be credited for his instrumental role in developing and bringing to life the swim program, and original swim facilities here at Ramapo College.  In 1973, he began his journey at Ramapo as a professor, which grew into a role as head swim coach, athletic director, and now hall of famer.  

Turnage came to Ramapo College from Glassboro State (now Rowan University).  It was there he produced his first NCAA qualifier, and was named Outstanding Swim Coach of the Year.  At Ramapo, he taught physical education classes, which took place in regular classrooms and off campus tennis and racquet clubs.  With the assistance of former athletic director, Bob Hartmann, Turnage made plans for a physical education building and pool facility on the Mahwah campus.  Funds were secured, the building was built, and Turnage paved the way for the college’s first varsity men’s and women’s swim programs which he developed and coached.  During his time at Ramapo, Turnage coached one male NCAA National swimmer, two female AIAW national swimmers, and a four-time All-American in hall of famer Kathy Nowell.  

Turnage’s passion for swimming, lifeguarding, and coaching began at the early age of 15, when both his brother and father were lost in water accidents.  After Ramapo, his career as an outstanding swim coach continued, as he took on the role as head coach at the University of Albany, and was awarded YMCA Coach of the Year for his success with the development of youth swimming programs.  After a long and prosperous career in the wide world of swimming, Turnage settled in Fairfield, Maine, where he currently resides with his wife Nancy.