Born: 1950
Cynthia Cindy Ann Potter (born August 27, 1950) is an American former Olympic diver and diving color commentator. She had an illustrious career in diving, earning numerous accolades and representing the United States in multiple Olympic Games.
Potter’s career in diving began in her teenage years. She quickly established herself as a talented diver, winning 28 national diving championships and becoming an 11-time All-American. Her dominance in the sport was evident as she won the U.S. outdoor championship in the 1-meter springboard from 1968 through 1977. Additionally, she claimed titles in the 3-meter springboard from 1971 to 1972 and from 1975 to 1977. Potter also excelled in the platform competition, taking first place in 1970 and 1971.
Her success was not limited to national competitions. Potter made her mark on the international stage as well, representing the United States in three Olympic Games. Her first Olympic appearance was in 1968, followed by the Games in 1972 and 1976. Unfortunately, she was selected for the 1980 U.S. Olympic diving team, but due to the U.S. boycott of the games that year, Potter was unable to compete. Nevertheless, she was one of the 461 athletes to receive a Congressional Gold Medal instead.
In the 1972 Olympics, Potter battled through a foot injury to finish seventh on the 3-meter springboard and 21st in the 10-meter platform. However, she achieved her greatest Olympic success in 1976 when she won a bronze medal in the 3-meter springboard event. Her dedication and resilience in the face of adversity showcased her exceptional diving skills.
Potter’s international achievements extended beyond the Olympics. She won a gold medal in the 3-meter springboard and a silver medal in the 10-meter platform at the 1970 World University Games. Additionally, she secured a bronze medal in the 3-meter springboard at the 1975 Pan American Games and a silver medal in the 3-meter springboard at the 1978 World Championships.
Recognized for her outstanding contributions to the sport, Potter was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1987. Her legacy as an exceptional diver continues to inspire future generations of athletes.
Following her retirement from diving, Potter embarked on a successful career as a television commentator. In the late 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s, she served as a color commentator for televised U.S. and international diving competitions, primarily for NBC Sports. Her expertise and insightful commentary made her a respected figure in the diving community.
Potter’s passion for education paralleled her athletic career. She graduated from Indiana University in 1973 with a degree in secondary education and later obtained a graduate degree in teaching and teacher education from the University of Arizona. After retiring from diving, she worked as a diving coach at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, Georgia, until 2020. Additionally, she has served as a diving coach at Southern Methodist University and the University of Arizona, nurturing young talent and passing on her knowledge and experience.
Cynthia Cindy Potter’s contributions to the sport of diving, both as an athlete and a commentator, have left an indelible mark. Her exceptional achievements, unwavering determination, and commitment to excellence have solidified her place in diving history.
Awards:
– Bronze medal in the 3 m springboard at the 1976 Olympic Games.
– Inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1987.