South East Aquatics recently held FUN SWIM , a program designed by Swimming Victoria to help young swimmers aged 7-12 get “race-ready” and transition into the club swimming environment. Over five weeks, 12 enthusiastic participants learned essential race skills, built confidence, and experienced the excitement of competitive swimming. The program culminated in a mini-meet where participants showcased their new abilities, marking a triumphant end to this innovative program.
"It was great to see how swimmers and families engaged with the FUN SWIM program," said Amy Pryde, President of South East Aquatics. "It has resulted in most participants now wanting to pursue competitive swimming after experiencing what it is like."
FUN SWIM, held at Casey Aquatic and Recreation Centre (ARC), was made possible through a community development grant from the City of Casey. The funds covered all costs and allowed the program to be offered free of charge. Each participant received a drink bottle, cap, and bag as part of the experience, enhancing their sense of belonging and engagement.
Located in a vibrant and multicultural area, FUN SWIM provided swimmers interested in competition with a clear, high-quality, consistent, and well-resourced pathway to support their transition into the club environment. Clubs and Learn to Swim (LTS) programs working together are key to creating positive experiences that encourage more children to embrace the sport.
FUN SWIM’s success highlights the importance of initiatives that combine training, competition opportunities, and camaraderie. By introducing young swimmers to the thrill of racing in a fun and engaging way, South East Aquatics has not only nurtured a love of swimming but also strengthened ties within the diverse community of Casey.
Interested in running a FUN SWIM program? Don’t miss the chance to bring this exciting initiative to your community— click here to learn more and register today!
