Wittenberg Women's Swimming Head Coach Gabe Rastatter

Bio

After a nationwide search, Wittenberg University selected Gabe Rastatter as its interim head coach for men’s and women’s swimming and diving in September 2025. After a successful 2025-26 season, Rastatter had the interim tag removed from his title.

Born and raised in Springfield, Ohio, Rastatter returned to his hometown to lead Wittenberg’s swimming program after a lifelong involvement in the sport. A graduate of Kenton Ridge High School and Ohio Northern University, he was a standout swimmer and team captain at both levels, earning all-conference and academic honors while specializing in sprint freestyle and butterfly events.

Rastatter earned a degree in philosophy, politics, and economics (PPE) from Ohio Northern before attending law school and passing the bar exam. He went on to serve as a prosecutor in both Cuyahoga and Clark counties. Despite his legal career, he remained deeply connected to swimming and endurance sports, competing regularly in triathlons, marathons, and Ironman events while also coaching swimmers of all ages and skill levels at Kenton Ridge, Catholic Central High School, and local club programs, including SPY.

His passion for coaching, athlete development, and the collegiate swimming environment ultimately led him back to Wittenberg.

“I have a deep legacy in Wittenberg athletics, especially through my two grandfathers,” Rastatter said. “It’s special to have family connections on both sides, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program. I understand the expectations that come with the position, but I’m ready to put in the work and do things the right way. Swimming has taught me the value of dedication and perseverance, and those lessons will guide me as a coach. Just as I was considering a career change, this opportunity came along. Thinking back to the 1970s, when Rosy coached the swim team, it feels like I’ve come full circle.”

Wittenberg Highlights

Men’s 

• CSC Academic All-District under Rastatter: 2 athletes

Women’s 

• One NCAC Scholar-Athlete award winner 

• CSC Academic All-District under Rastatter: 4 athletes