Richard Quick means so much to Dorsey Tierney-Walker that she’s willing to do something for him she hasn’t done in a decade.

Tierney-Walker, Auburn University’s co-head women’s swimming coach, will don a swim suit and dive into the water today as a tribute to Quick, who is suffering from an inoperable, cancerous brain tumor.

“It’s been about 10 years,” said Tierney-Walker, who was recruited by Quick to swim at Texas in the early ’90s and now coaches with him at Auburn. “I’ve always wanted to put on one of those fancy suits swimmers wear these days. So, I might put one of them on (Saturday), just to keep me afloat if nothing else.”

The things we do for people we love. Hey, isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is all about?

And for the holiday, the Auburn men’s and women’s swimming teams will show their love for their head coach by hosting the “Swim Quick” program at James E. Martin Aquatics Center to help raise money and awareness for cancer research.

But mostly, it’s to show support for Quick as he battles this disease.

A pep rally, if you will.

“We believe in Richard and that’s what this is really all about,” Tierney-Walker said. “He’s spent his life giving to others, and being a positive influence. The entire swimming community has been affected by this, and this is our chance to extend the same positive energy that he has given to all of us.”

Anyone who wants to pledge money or signup to swim laps to raise money may do so prior to the event from 8:30-9 a.m. today. After opening remarks and a tribute to Quick, the swimming will begin around 9:30. 

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