Debbie Gratias Williams

Debbie's competitive swimming career began as a 9-year-old member of the Fircrest Amateur Swim Team in 1963. Before she graduated from Tacoma's Wilson High in 1972, her talent and training in the pool elevated her to Top 20 world ranking.

With the coaching of Gary Dyer and Dick Hannula, Debbie's racing times continually dropped. At 15, in 1969, she qualified for the U.S. National Championship meet in the 100 and 200-meter breaststroke. She traveled to Long Beach, CA and shared a room with another Tacoma Swim Club great, Kaye Hall, who had won two gold medals at the Mexico City Olympics in 1968.

Debbie qualified for the national championships again in 1970, placing sixth in the 100-meter breaststroke. She was also part of the Tacoma Swim Club's 400-meter medley relay team that placed fourth in the nation in 1970. In 1971, Debbie placed eighth in the 100-meter breaststroke at the national meet. She also competed in the 1972 Olympic Trials in Chicago as an 18-year-old.

Debbie is one of 15 Tacoma Swim Club members who have achieved Top 25 world rankings. She graduated from the University of Washington with a Zoology degree and a teaching certificate.