New Mexico State University Athletics

Welch enters the US Bank/NM State Hall of Fame from the coaching ranks and the first coach since Scott Lieberwirth, who was inducted in 2014. The first head men's swimming and diving coach in NM State history, Welch began his tenure with the Aggies in 1964 before taking a leave of absence to pursue a doctorates degree in 1967 and returned to the Aggies in 1970. During his time at the helm, Welch guided Steve Betts to the 1977 NCAA Championships in the 200-yard backstroke. He was also the only staffer to serve as both head coach and chair of the faculty athletic advisory council. In addition, Welch was instrumental in the creation of the Aggie women's swimming and diving team in 1972.