Two teams of swimmers from Marist University will enter the water to honor a fellow swimmers who lost his life to cancer way too soon.

Some people leave a lasting impression not because of what they accomplished, but because of how they made others feel. For so many in the Marist swimming community, William “Brink” Hartman was one of those people.

A former team captain, record-setting swimmer, coach, mentor, and huge role model of Marist swimming & diving, Brink was known for his kindness, humor, selflessness and ability to make everyone feel supported. Whether he was on the pool deck, in the stands, or simply reaching out with a kind word, he had a way of bringing people together and making everyone feel like they belonged.

When Brink was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive bone cancer in 2023, he faced the diagnosis with tremendous courage, resilience, and determination, never allowing his diagnosis to define him. In truth, his strength, positivity and compassion only grew stronger during his fight. Throughout his journey, he became a passionate advocate for cancer awareness and support of those affected by cancer. Although unable to participate in the swim himself, he felt a deep connection with the mission of Swim Across the Sound.

Brink’s continued support of teammates and generations of Marist athletes who participated in the Swim never wavered. He understood firsthand the importance of supporting cancer patients and the impact that has on a family.
Marist Swimmer’s who were touched by Brink’s friendship and leadership will swim in the Swim Across the Sound marathon for him this year. They have each shared their reasons why Brink is a man whose legacy will continue to inspire.

Kevin McNamara (TEAM: The Big Cheese)
When I was a current swimmer at Marist University, it was part of the culture to do this event. Now that I am an alumni, we want to continue the tradition. We are also swimming for an alumni of Marist, Brink Hartman, who unfortunately passed this year after a long battle with cancer. Besides being an alumni of Marist swim and dive, Brink was my girlfriend’s father and a second father to me. He loved coming to watch everyone swim, and even if he wasn’t able to make it in past years to watch us complete this event, I know he would be proud and happy to see some “Washed Up” alumni get back in the water and compete again.

Anthony Lemma (TEAM: The Big Cheese)
I started swimming because cancer has impacted so many people in my life. Some were fortunate enough to make it through, while others were not. Most recently, a fellow Marist Swim and Dive alumnus, William Brink Hartman, lost his battle with cancer. After coming together following the services, we decided to dedicate this year’s swim to Brink’s memory. This swim is not only a way to honor him, but also to support everyone who has been affected by this disease.

James Conable (TEAM: The Big Cheese)
Swimming in memory of a friend named Brink Hartman who died of cancer last year. Swimming with my old college teammates.

Ellie DeKeukelaere (TEAM: Foxy Ladies)
We chose to participate in Swim Across the Sound to raise money and support cancer patients and their families. As swimmers, we wanted to use our sport to make a positive impact and support a cause bigger than ourselves. We are swimming in honor of Marist alum Brink Hartman, whose strength and legacy continue to inspire our community after his recent passing from cancer. We also swim for our family members, friends, and everyone we know who has been affected by cancer.

Caitlyn Riordan (TEAM: Foxy Ladies)
My best friend’s dad, Brink Hartman, recently passed away from cancer. Swimming in this race will encourage donations and bring together a community who loves swimming just like Brink did.