Kearney High School Swim Coach Jane Bartee has announced her retirement after a remarkable career that helped shape the success and legacy of the KHS swim program.
“Coach Bartee’s impact on Kearney High Swimming cannot be overstated,” said Ryan Hogue, Kearney High School Athletic Director. “Her dedication, leadership, and commitment to our student-athletes helped elevate the program to new heights. Beyond the records and accolades, she built a culture of excellence, integrity, and perseverance. She will be greatly missed.”
Bartee began her journey with Kearney Public Schools as a volunteer coach in 2009 after moving to Kearney. Her passion and commitment to student-athletes quickly led her to become an assistant coach, and she was named head coach in the 2015–2016 season when the new Kearney High School facility opened.
During her tenure, Bartee played a pivotal role in the program’s growth and success. Under her leadership, nine of the school’s sixteen individual swimming records and three of six relay records were broken. Her teams consistently competed at a high level, earning multiple top-10 finishes at the state meet and claiming the HAC Boys Team Runner-Up title in 2021.
One of the most memorable highlights of her career came in 2018 when swimmer Collin McKelvey won the 100 freestyle, securing Kearney’s first individual state championship since 2005. Several of her athletes continued their swimming careers at NCAA Division I and Division II programs.
Reflecting on her time with KHS, Bartee shared, “It has been an incredible honor to coach these student-athletes and be part of their growth—not just in the pool, but as people. I’ve been blessed to witness their determination, resilience, and heart every day. The Kearney swim family will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Bartee leaves behind a legacy of hard work, inspiration, and a love for the sport that will continue to ripple through the program for years to come. She will continue to teach 5th grade at Kenwood Elementary.
