There are times as a swimmer when you realize how special this sport can be. While swimming fast, getting a personal best, or winning a race are great, teaching swimming to a group of children and helping them
Courtesy of Matthew Meade
overcome fears and anxiety about the water can be an incredibly rewarding experience. That is exactly what the Yale Men’s and Women’s Swim teams, together with some alums, did this past weekend in New Haven as part of Yale’s national day of service event. Children from first through eighth grade from a local school as well as the Boys and Girls Club were able to get one on one and some cases two on one personalized instruction. All of the Yale participants shared their extensive knowledge of swimming technique and safety in a way that thoroughly engaged the children and created a wonderful atmosphere for learning and fun. In this session the Yale swimmers were able to stir interest in local children who had not, for whatever reason, been able to participate in formal swim lessons or could not swim. For many of the participants it was the first time they had met with or interacted with a Yale student, let alone a collegiate swimmer. Each student left with a very positive impression of Yale and swimming. By giving back to the New Haven community and sharing the swimmer’s love of the water with New Haven children, the teachers made swimming a fun and safe experience for all of the participants.
Courtesy of Matthew Meade
The day started with each child receiving a goodie bag from the USA Swimming Foundation including a swim cap and pencils. Within minutes of the program starting the sound of laughter and children
Courtesy of Matthew Meade
splashing and having fun could be heard on the pool deck. The day happened because the current teams took time out of their busy weekend to work with the kids. At the end of the session one of the parents said she was so thankful for the opportunity the program gave her son to learn about competitive swimming. As a result he has decided to join the swim team when he goes to high school next year. The program continues next weekend.
I spent this past weekend with my 3 year old granddaughter in florida…my goal was to make her feel safe and comfortable in the water. I succeeded…feels great! I teach BVIslanders how to connect with the ocean…many have fear because of old ways. If I can get one person to get over their fear of water I feel like I have saved a life.