Colleen Lischwe St. Louis, MO, Obituary : Celebrated McKendree Water Polo Coach Tragically Passes Away in Car Accident
The sports and academic communities are mourning the sudden loss of Colleen Lischwe, a dedicated coach, leader, and mentor who tragically passed away in a car accident in St. Louis, MO. Colleen served as the head coach of both the men’s and women’s water polo programs at McKendree University, leaving an indelible legacy in collegiate sports. Her untimely death has sent shockwaves through the water polo community, her alma mater, and her hometown of St. Louis.
This article honors Colleen’s remarkable life, her contributions to water polo, and the profound impact she made on those around her.
A Life Dedicated to Excellence in Water Polo
Trailblazing Leadership at McKendree University
Colleen Lischwe’s journey with McKendree University began in 2017 as a graduate assistant during the inaugural year of the water polo program. Her passion and commitment quickly propelled her to leadership roles, becoming the head coach of the women’s team in February 2017 and the men’s team in June 2018. Notably, she was the only female head coach of an NCAA men’s water polo program, breaking barriers and setting an inspiring example for women in sports leadership.
Under her guidance, both teams achieved unprecedented success. The women’s team celebrated milestones like their first Midwest Division Championship appearance in 2017 and a school-record 16 wins in 2022, earning multiple All-Conference accolades. On the men’s side, Colleen led the team to their first winning season in 2018, clinching the MAWPC-West Conference Championship and earning recognition as Coach of the Year.
Honors and Achievements
Colleen’s coaching excellence did not go unnoticed. Over her career, she received numerous prestigious awards, including:
- 2017 CWPA Midwest Division Coach of the Year for her leadership of the women’s team.
- 2018 Coach of the Year Award at the CWPA DII Championships.
- 2018 Monte Nitzkowski Distinguished Coaching Award for her contributions to water polo in the Midwest.
- Sandy Nitta Distinguished Coaching Award in 2020 for advancing women’s collegiate water polo.
Her athletes consistently thrived under her mentorship, earning All-American honors and excelling both in the pool and academically.
From Athlete to Mentor: Colleen’s Early Journey
A Star Athlete
Colleen’s passion for water polo began in her high school years in St. Louis, MO, where she was named Missouri High School Female Player of the Year from 2005 to 2007. She continued her stellar career at Marist College, a Division I program in New York. As a standout attacker, she helped the team secure two MAAC Conference Championships and competed in the NCAA National Championship Tournament, finishing seventh in 2009.
Transition to Coaching
After earning her Master of Business Administration from McKendree University in 2018, Colleen embraced her role as a coach with enthusiasm and expertise. Prior to her collegiate coaching career, she served as head coach at Kirkwood High School and as the Midwest Zone Women’s Cadet Coach for USA Water Polo’s Olympic Development Program. She also remained connected to her roots by coaching for the St. Louis Area Polo club, fostering young talent in her hometown.
A Beloved Member of the Community
A Mentor Beyond the Pool
Colleen’s influence extended far beyond her technical expertise in water polo. She was known for her genuine care for her athletes, guiding them through challenges both in and out of the pool. Her mentorship helped shape the lives of countless students, instilling values of perseverance, teamwork, and dedication.
One former athlete shared, “Colleen wasn’t just a coach; she was a mentor and a friend. She inspired us to be better athletes and better people.”
A Loving Family and Personal Life
Outside of her professional life, Colleen resided in St. Louis with her husband, Casey, and their two pets, Albus and Raimey. She found joy in gardening, reading, practicing yoga, and traveling—pursuits that reflected her balanced and vibrant approach to life.
A Tragic Loss
The Fatal Car Accident
Details of the accident that claimed Colleen’s life remain under investigation. The news of her passing has left her family, friends, colleagues, and the broader water polo community in mourning.
An Outpouring of Tributes
Tributes have poured in from around the country, highlighting the profound impact Colleen had on so many lives. McKendree University released a statement expressing their sorrow:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Coach Colleen Lischwe. Her dedication to our water polo programs and her unwavering commitment to our students will never be forgotten. She was a remarkable leader, mentor, and friend.”
Celebrating Colleen’s Legacy
Memorial Services and Support
Plans for a memorial service to honor Colleen’s life and achievements are underway. The McKendree University community and the water polo world are coming together to remember her incredible contributions and celebrate the legacy she leaves behind.
Carrying Forward Her Vision
Colleen’s work in developing water polo in the Midwest has set a foundation for future generations of athletes and coaches. Her commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and mentorship will continue to inspire others in the years to come.
Final Reflections on a Life Well-Lived
Colleen Lischwe’s tragic passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing those who make a difference. Her legacy as a trailblazer, mentor, and compassionate leader will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, athletes, and colleagues.
As the St. Louis and McKendree communities grieve this immense loss, they take solace in celebrating the remarkable life Colleen lived and the countless lives she touched. Rest in peace, Coach Lischwe—you will never be forgotten.
