Wauwatosa produced a number of outstanding swimmers in the 1940’s and 50’s. However, since the formation of Tosa East in 1961, no swimmer can match the exploits of Bob Pohle. In three years of varsity swimming, Bob had an unbelievable record of 41-3. Bob’s specialty was the 100m backstroke. As a sophomore, Bob finished 3rd in State and broke the state record in a dual meet versus Tosa West. As a Junior, Bob had a year to remember. He captured the State Championship in the 100m backstroke, setting the state record in the process. His time was the 26th fastest in the nation and he was awarded All American Honorable Mention. Bob also set the state record and won the State Championship as part of the 200 Medley Relay team. The team’s time was the 20th fastest in the country. As a Senior, Bob set a conference record in the 200 Individual Medley and finished 2nd in State in the 100 backstroke. Swimming is a way of life for the Pohle family. Bob’s father won the State backstroke championship in 1938 and one of his brothers and a daughter have both swam for the University of Wisconsin.
