Jesuit Dallas Athletics

Entering Jesuit Dallas a freshman, Bob Tierney immediately became an integral part of the varsity swim team. He completed his high school career undefeated in his specialty, the 100-yard backstroke. A high school All-American each of his four years at Jesuit, he managed to state and national records in the event. In addition to swimming under Jesuit coach Herb Bowles, Tierney was also a member of Town North YMCA Swim Team, coached by 1968 Olympian Ken Merten.

During his high school years, Tierney earned national rankings as one of the top backstrokers in the United States. A regular finalist in the 100 and 200-meter backstroke events at the U.S. Open Championships, he represented the U.S. in many international competitions. He was also a member of the 4x100-meter medley relay, which set an American record in Bremen, Germany. By the age of 17, Tierney was ranked among the top 10 swimmers in the world and had the privilege of being a member of the 1975 U.S. World Championship Team. In 1975, Tierney finished second at the Junior National Championships in the 100-yard back (51.77), while winning the national title the following year.

Heavily recruited, Tierney accepted a full four-year scholarship to the University of Southern California, joining Olympians John Naber and Bruce Furniss. A member of the 1977 NCAA Division I Swimming & Diving championship team, he place third and fourth in the 100 and 200-yard backstroke, respectively. Tierney received four NCAA All-American honors during his time at USC, collecting the plaudits in both backstroke events in 1977 and 1978.