Mike Kowalski (1995) - Florida State Athletics Hall of Fame

Mike Kowalski

Induction:
1995

Mike Kowalski was one of the most successful swimmers in Florida State history. Kowalski was the finest Seminole two-time All-American in swimming since the early 1960s.

Kowalski was the team MVP and captain in his junior and senior year. Before his career at Florida State was over, the Michigan native had broken records in the 100 Free Style, 100 Backstroke, 400 Free Style Relay and 400 Medley. Mike combined with Dan Akre, Brian Jones and Pablo Morales to win a national championship in the 4 X 100 medley relays at the United States Swimming Long Course National Championships.

After leaving Florida State with a degree in Business Administration, Mike had one dream left to participate in the Olympics. In the summer of 1988 he qualified for the 50-meter free style and 100 meter backstroke swimming events. He finished 12th in the 100 meter backstroke, setting the world's best time at 50 meters and placing him 30th in the world's ranking.

In the business world, he is now CEO of the largest meat purveyors in Detroit, Michigan.