Diving with Sammy Lee

Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Sammy Lee was a trailblazing athlete, coach, and mentor who made history in the sport of diving. He was born on August 1, 1920, in Fresno, California, to Korean immigrants. Lee grew up during a time when Asian Americans faced racial discrimination and segregation, but he did not let this hold him back from pursuing his dreams.

Lee’s passion for diving began when he was just 12 years old. He would sneak into a local swimming pool after hours to practice his diving…