April M. Jones, Coach William Archie's granddaughter, and Clifford Porter, NSU Vice President for University Advancement, stand under the name plate in honor of Coach William "Bill" Archie Sr.
Lane 1 of the swimming pool at Gill Gym “belonged” to Coach William “Bill” Archie Sr. It’s the lane where he swam in the pool that he built. On Friday, April 3, 2026, it was dedicated and officially named in his honor as a tribute to his impact in and out of the pool.
“His legacy extends far beyond the pool,” said Dr. Melody Webb, NSU Vice President and Athletics Director. “Through his commitment, mentorship and dedication, he helped shape generations of Spartans and instilled in them skills and confidence that would last a lifetime.”
Archie came to Norfolk State in the 1960s. He coached the NSU football team from 1961–1966, and from 1970–1984, Archie was Norfolk State’s Athletic Director. During his tenure, NSU won two Division II men's track championships (1973 and 1974) and 26 CIAA championships in all. He was also instrumental in forming and coaching the first NSU swim team in 1962, and he pioneered the research and design of the pool that is still in use today.
It is clear that Coach Archie had a passion for swimming and an advocacy for teaching others how to swim. His granddaughter, April M. Jones, recounted that he taught her, other family members and the community how to swim.
“Not only did he create this pool, he also created two community pools after the approval of the city of Norfolk. Those pools were in Berkeley and the Chesterfield Heights communities,” said Jones. “Those pools were significant to the city of Norfolk because back in those times, a lot of community pools weren’t there, and we weren’t accepted in those pools.”
“So those pools,” she continued, “were significant and pivotal simply because there was a sense of community for the African American community.”
Beyond the pool deck, Coach Archie’s legacy was rooted in relationships. Many former athletes credit him with shaping their work ethic, leadership abilities and commitment to giving back.
The dedication of the pool lane serves not only as recognition of Coach Archie’s service to Norfolk State University, but also as a reminder of the values he championed.
“A man’s legacy is written by the days he lived and those left behind to tell his story,” said Clifford Porter, NSU Vice President for University Advancement. “Coach Archie is an inspiration and one that can be used as an example of a life well-lived.”