Mike and Carol first met in 1983 while coaching at Brookfield East High School, beginning a partnership rooted in shared passion, leadership, and service to young athletes. Over the next four decades, the Roses became synonymous with excellence, integrity, and commitment in interscholastic swimming and diving.

Mike Rose compiled one of the most distinguished coaching careers in state history. He coached boys swimming at Brookfield East High School from 1983 to 1997, while also serving as an assistant girls swimming coach at Brookfield Central High School in 1983 and 1984. In 1985, Mike became the head girls swimming coach at Brookfield East, a position he held for an incredible 41 years (1985–2025).

Under his leadership, Mike’s teams earned four WIAA State Championships—Boys (1996) and Girls (2019, 2020, 2021). His teams also finished as state runners-up multiple times, including girls teams in 1997 and 2022, and boys teams in 1994, 1995, and 1997. Throughout his career, Mike coached 79 High School All-American events (individual and relay) and 54 WIAA State Champions, highlighting his sustained excellence and athlete development.

Mike’s impact was recognized at the highest levels. He was named NFHS National Girls Coach of the Year in 2019 and 2021, and earned WISCA Coach of the Year honors for boys (1991–1992) and girls (2019, 2020, 2021, 2023).

Carol Rose built an equally impressive legacy as a diving coach at Brookfield Central and Brookfield East High Schools, coaching both boys and girls diving. Known for her technical expertise and athlete-centered approach, Carol guided one WIAA State Champion and several top-eight finishers at the state diving meet. Her excellence was recognized with Boys Diving Coach of the Year honors in 1995, and Girls Diving Coach of the Year honors in 1997 and 2021.

Reflecting on their careers, Mike and Carol shared “We have been very fortunate to have coached many talented athletes who are also great people with supportive families. We both have had the opportunity to coach individuals through two generations which has been really cool.”

“Together, Mike and Carol shaped not only championship teams, but generations of student-athletes who learned the values of hard work, teamwork, and character. Their influence extends far beyond the pool deck, and their legacy will continue to be felt throughout the Brookfield community and Wisconsin high school athletics for years to come. It was an honor to work with them and I can’t thank Mike and Carol enough for all they have done for Brookfield East High School and the School District of Elmbrook,” said Brookfield East Athletic & Activities Director Ben Westphal.