Newington and Ashley Ridge High School swimmers teamed up again this year to bring back the much-anticipated Swimming with the Sharks Camp to Newington Plantation Pool. After a hiatus due to COVID-19, the camp returned from July 5-7, delighting participants and organizers alike.
Swimming with the Sharks Camp was founded in 2017 and provides swim lessons and pool-related activities for individuals with special needs. The camp recruits swimmers and coaches from the Newington Tiger Sharks and Ashley Ridge High School swim teams to serve as instructors. Victoria Merritt, the swim coach for both teams, expressed her excitement about the camp’s return, saying, It’s a free camp run by volunteers. Mainly we focus on water safety and making sure the community knows anyone can benefit from swim lessons.
The primary goal of the camp is to promote water safety and introduce participants to the sport of swimming. In addition to teaching basic swimming skills, the instructors also help campers learn different strokes, which can be beneficial for those interested in participating in Special Olympics. By improving their swimming abilities, campers gain confidence in the water, bringing peace of mind to their parents.
The camp is primarily designed for younger swimmers with special needs, but there is no age cap for participants. Lifeguards and coaches closely supervise the campers, ensuring their safety both in and out of the water. Merritt emphasized that the camp welcomes individuals of all ages, stating, We want people to know that you are never too old to learn to swim or to get some reinforcement, so if someone would benefit from the camp, we want them to come.
Each day of the camp includes a one-hour session filled with swimming lessons and safety tips. Campers also enjoy entertaining activities such as showcases, splash contests, and medal presentations. In fact, those interested in diving even have the opportunity to learn diving skills from the camp’s dedicated instructors.
Besides benefiting the campers, Swimming with the Sharks also provides an opportunity for varsity swimmers and Tiger Sharks to give back to their community. Merritt highlighted the positive impact on the older swimmers, saying, It’s a way for them to give back to the community and to step into a leadership role. The camp allows these experienced swimmers to share their passion with others and remind them of the joy and fulfillment that swimming can bring.
Typically, Swimming with the Sharks Camp is held during the last week of June or the first week of July. The organizers promote the camp through Dorchester School District 2 teachers and finalize the event details by the end of May. Merritt expressed her hope for the camp’s long-term presence in the community, stating, We hope to be able to provide this for the community for years to come.
With its focus on water safety, swim instruction, and fun pool activities, Swimming with the Sharks Camp continues to be a beloved event among individuals with special needs and their families. By creating a safe and inclusive environment, the camp allows participants to develop vital swimming skills, promotes physical activity, and fosters a love for the sport. The return of the camp after a hiatus due to COVID-19 has been met with great enthusiasm and excitement, ensuring that the Swimming with the Sharks legacy will endure for years to come.
