You are probably aware from a previous post that Georgia Southwestern University in Americus, Georgia has announced it will close the pool which has been the home of AAAA swim team (aka Quad A/Americus Blue Tide). The supporters of this swim team, community member, alumni, etc. are trying desperately to get GSW to change its plans. You can help us in two ways.
Find the thread titled, “Don’t Let This Swim Team Drown” and follow one of the links and write a short note to GSW asking them to keep the pool open. It doesn’t matter where you are from, just let the powers that be know how important aquatics are.
I would also like everyone who has a child/teen on a swim team, or who was on a swim team as a child/teen, to answer these questions.
In addition to the physical benefits (strengthening, endurance, coordination) how does being on a swim team benefit a child/teen?
And, how does a children’s/teen’s swim team benefit the community?
Thanks in advance,
Lainey
I will try to respond with some more detail later, but some quick thoughts on your questions
In addition to the physical benefits (strengthening, endurance, coordination) how does being on a swim team benefit a child/teen?
Teaches goal setting, persistence, etc. ... many of the qualities they'll need to succeed in school, jobs, life
Keeps them "off the streets" / out of trouble and engaged in a positive activity
Is one of the few mixed-gender sports where boys and girls get to compete and train together: I think this makes for stronger and healthier relationships and attitudes amongst teens
Though I don't have data to back me up, I think there's a lot of evidence that kids who engaged in structured sports like swimming have higher graduation rates
Teaches a LIFE-SAVING skill
I will try to respond with some more detail later, but some quick thoughts on your questions
In addition to the physical benefits (strengthening, endurance, coordination) how does being on a swim team benefit a child/teen?
Teaches goal setting, persistence, etc. ... many of the qualities they'll need to succeed in school, jobs, life
Keeps them "off the streets" / out of trouble and engaged in a positive activity
Is one of the few mixed-gender sports where boys and girls get to compete and train together: I think this makes for stronger and healthier relationships and attitudes amongst teens
Though I don't have data to back me up, I think there's a lot of evidence that kids who engaged in structured sports like swimming have higher graduation rates
Teaches a LIFE-SAVING skill