Thank you for your interest in Cerritos College swimming. Within the last two seasons, the Cerritos College Falcons have become one of the preeminent programs in the state of California. The Falcon swimming team has fast become one of the elite teams in the state and is considered an early-season contender for the South Coast Conference championship, as well as a threat to compete for the state championship. 

In years past, the Cerritos College swimming program was year in and year out, one of the most competitive in the state. But after a time where they didn’t compete for the championships, they have returned to the elite. Head coach Joe Abing, who is now in his fifth season as the Falcons coach, led the team to the South Coast Conference championship for the second time in the last three years, including four straight winning seasons. Abing has led the Falcons to a 23-5 record, two SCC titles and two second place finishes, while he was named the SCC Coach of the Year both years they won the title. Last year alone, four relay teams and seven individuals advanced to the state championships, while five new school records were set. In addition, diving coach Glen Myer was voted the SCC Diving Coach of the Year in 2007.

The college has an enrollment of 23,000 students and is located in Norwalk, CA, just minutes from both downtown Los Angeles to the northwest and Orange County to the southeast. There is plenty of local housing in the area, while the college also offers a housing board, which offers rooms for rent at affordable prices in the immediate area.

     For more information on Cerritos College and the Falcon swimming program, please feel free to look over the following links: 

Note: All prospective student-athletes should contact Joe Abing at jabing@cerritos.edu or at (562) 860-2451 ext. 2870 before filling out an application

College Application | Financial Aid Information | Current Class Schedule

WHY CERRITOS COLLEGE ?

• School - Cerritos is an excellent school with the top instructors. Cerritos can meet all of your goals for classes. It is the best place for you to transfer from. We have two counselors who work specifically with our athletes. MOST IMPORTANT- is priority registration.  You get 1^st choice on all classes. This is VERY important, and most community colleges do not have this bonus. We have a great campus, with a lot of brand new buildings, technology and Cerritos is a fun place to be. It is right next to the 605, 105, and 91 freeways, so it is easy to get to, and there is plenty of parking.
   

• Swimming - We have the best program for anyone who wants to compete for a championship. With your talent, I can’t see you being happy anywhere else.  Practices will be challenging, and fun. We train hard, and love to compete.  In the last two seasons, our record stands at 13-1. We recently just won the South Coast Conference championship. We plan on winning a lot every season, and want you to be part of that. You have the talent to compete at a higher level after community college. I want to help you have that option. I know I can help you accomplish that better than anyone.
   

• Travel - We travel in Charter buses. While all the other schools try to cram in crowded vans, we drive in style. There is plenty of room to sleep, study and watch movies on one of the many TV’s, and there is even a bathroom on board. When we stay overnight, we only stay at the best hotels.
   

• Team - This team enjoys each other. You will be a welcome part of our family.  There are no egos here. We all want to win and work together to accomplish our goals. You would have no problem making new friends. Everyone would love to have you on our team.
   

• Coaching -  I have been coaching swimming a long time. I have coached numerous All-Americans, and have a great deal of experience. Last season I was voted Coach of the Year for the South Coast Conference. There is no other school that can give you the attention I will. Swimming for a coach that motivates you, can make all the difference. My swimmers love to swim. That is why they can’t get enough, and why we train so hard. I know you would have a great experience swimming here, and I would be thrilled to be your coach.
   

• Job - Since I run our pools during the school year, I hire and pay all the lifeguards. I can give life guarding hours that fit to your schedule.

• Pools - We have two pools. One of our pools is mostly shallow for lap swimming and instruction. Our all-deep pool is a very wide 8-lane pool, ideal for swim meets and water polo games. We are currently making plans for building a new 50 meter pool. This pool would be finished in time for your second season.
   

• Impact - I don’t think there is any question you would make an impact anywhere and make a difference for any team. What will be different is the school, your team and how well you do as a team. You know what it feels like to win. You know what it feels like to be a large part of that team’s success. YOU CAN DO THE SAME AT CERRITOS. Cerritos is where you belong.
   

• Weightlifting - We lift weights year-round. We are on a program to get stronger.  This would be a great help for you. While getting bigger and stronger, you will become an even bigger force.
   

• Making your own path - Where do you want to be in three years? Do you want to eventually go on to a university and graduate? Get a high paying job? We have a variety of options of classes and programs to take. I will help you do that.  Swimming can help, but I only see it helping you at Cerritos. Let me help you achieve your dreams.

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Email: John Van Gaston, Ext. 2896
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