The Colorado Springs Swim Team (CSST) was formed in 1973, after the Pikes Peak Y discontinued its competitive swimming program. Dr. William Greer, a long-time supporter of competitive swimming, and City Aquatic Manager Scott Simpson, arranged with the City of Colorado Springs to sponsor CSST. About 200 former Pikes Peak Y members joined the team, coached by David Anderson and assisted by Bob Bell. Greer and Simpson remained involved in the operation of CSST for many years. The City Park and Recreation Department offered CSST to practice at the MuniciPool, and subsidized some of the expenses. Area high school coaches also helped with the coaching.
In 1977, the board decided to hire full time professional coaches for the team. Eileen O'Donnell coached the team for one year. Rick Paine succeeded O'Donnell and stayed on for five years. Under Paine coaching, several nationally ranked swimmers emerged. One of the most outstanding was Lynn Cunliffe, who ranked first in the United States in the 13 - 14 age group in the individual medley (IM).
In 1988, Mike Doane became CSST's head coach. Doane left University of Wyoming where he had been WAC Coach of the Year in 1985, 1986 and 1987, leading two swimmers to Olympic trials. The same year, CSST became a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt corporation.
Over the years, CSST has become one of the finest teams in the State of Colorado and in the region. Several national caliber swimmers trained with CSST under Coach Doane were a credit to the city, which is the home of the Olympic Training Center. In addition to offering programs to developing swimmers of all stages, CSST was, and still is committed to be highly competitive on a national level.