Otsego Public Schools is proud to announce that long-time educator and coach Darryl Belton has been named the Michigan High School Coaches Association (MHSCA) State Boys Swimming & Diving Coach of the Year.

The prestigious honor is voted on by fellow swim coaches from across Michigan, making the recognition particularly meaningful for Belton.

"It’s really cool to be named for this honor because it’s voted on by other swim coaches," Belton shared. "To be held in high esteem by your colleagues in that way, and acknowledged for the work done here, means a lot.”

Belton’s coaching journey began around 1982. A high school swimmer himself, he attended Oakland University. While he didn't swim for OU’s powerhouse program, his former high school coach reached out asking for help. Belton worked the coaching role around his college schedule and found a lifelong calling.

For the past 30 years, Belton has been a cornerstone of Otsego High School, serving as a social studies teacher, teaching everything from World History to AP courses. Belton has coached boys and girls swimming and diving for those 30 years, as well as football throughout his tenure. He was also instrumental during the construction of the Otsego Aquatic Center (OAC), learning invaluable lessons during the community project alongside leaders like Jeff Haase to help bring the facility to fruition.

Beyond the victories and state accolades, Belton measures his true success by the lifelong connections built within the program.

"The real highlight is after kids leave the program, graduate, and come back," said Belton. "I get to see what they’re doing with their lives, and I even get invited to their weddings. It’s so cool to see who they become 5, 10, 15, or 20 years after their time as a student-athlete."

That strong relationship brings a steady stream of alumni back to Otsego. Former swimmers frequently return to support the program and coach the summer series, including Millie Shattuck, who returned to coach diving, as well as alumni Luke Stender and Lilly Cole. Another former swimmer went on to become an official, while alumna Maggie Darnell now serves as the Director of the Otsego Aquatic Center

While Belton hasn't set any firm plans for his eventual post-retirement years, his legacy as an educator, mentor, and state-honored coach will forever be a part of the Otsego Public Schools legacy.

Coach Belton will be formally recognized alongside 28 other distinguished coaches and athletic directors from across the state at the annual MHSCA State Awards Luncheon.

Event: MHSCA State Awards Luncheon
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
Location: Great Hall Banquet & Convention Center (5121 Bay City Rd, Midland, MI 48640)
Tickets: Available at MHSCA.org starting October 1, 2026

"The selection of Coach Belton reflects the high standard of excellence maintained by Otsego Schools and the broader community," noted the MHSCA in their announcement.