USSSA 2023 Fall Magazine Ready, Set, Swim

The Power of USSSA

Leaders Should be Problem Finders

The Power of Positive Thinking

What’s Your Why?

UNITED STATES SWIM SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

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IN THIS ISSUE

ASSOCIATION HEADQUARTERS

4815 E. Carefree Hwy., Suite 108-480 Cave Creek, AZ 85331 480.837.5525

usssa@usswimschools.org

usswimschools.org

Executive Director

Lisa M. Zarda, CAE, CNAP

Editor

Anne Swanson

ASSOCIATION OFFICERS

President

Tracy Koleber, Nitro Swimming

Vice President

Buffy Folise, Chicago Swim School

ASSOCIATION DIRECTORS

Rose Cholewinski SwimAmerica - Davis

Davina Lopez Davina’s Swim House

Debbie Sayers DolFUN SWIM Academy

Ann Marie Sunderhaus Hubbard Family Swim School

Melissa Taylor Small Fish Big Fish Swim School

Zapier Integration

Business Intelligence

Dashboard

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT We can weather any storm.

As the President of the United States Swim School Association, I am honored to address you all and express my heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering dedication to our shared mission of promoting water safety and swimming education.

The past year has presented us with unprecedented challenges, but our collective resilience has proven that we can weather any storm.

• Membership approved amending our by-laws to allow us to represent our industry as a whole.

• You raised funds to hire a national PR firm to help package our brand and message as we chart our course for our 10-year Target; “our member schools will be the schools of choice by 2033.”

• New York schools saw unanimous passage of a bill, in their state, making a water safety video part of new parent education in hospitals.

• Georgia saw the passage of SB 107, and a USSSA Member Task Force developed a Model Aquatic Safety Plan to present to the Georgia Department of Health.

• Texas schools continued to work to be a voice of reason in proposed legislation that would only regulate schools like ones represented by our current membership while excluding government programs.

• Through your effort, countless lives have been empowered with essential swimming skills, ensuring a safer future for our communities. As of the date I’m writing this letter, our members have taught 2,518,736 lessons this year.

• With countless hours of work by many people, a revision of the CFSI course has been launched.

As an association, USSSA remains committed to supporting and representing the interests of our members. We have been working tirelessly to advocate for our industry, collaborating with regulatory bodies, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders. Our goal is to create an environment that fosters growth, innovation, and excellence in swimming education.

Before I conclude, I would like to share that this will be my last letter as President of the United States Swim School Association. My term is coming

to an end, and it has been an absolute privilege to serve in this role. I appreciate your support, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to our association’s mission. Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones and set the stage for an even brighter future.

TRACY

President US Swim School Association

KOLEBER

TRACY KOLEBER

FROM THE DESK OF THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Empowering the Swim Industry

As the demand for quality swim instruction continues to grow, it is essential for industry professionals to stay ahead of the curve and elevate their expertise. USSSA is excited to have launched a groundbreaking new swim instructor certification that not only fulfills this need but also emphasizes the collective power of USSSA to achieve greatness together.

THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALITY SWIM INSTRUCTION:

We all know that quality swim instruction plays a pivotal role in fostering water safety, promoting physical fitness, and enhancing overall confidence in the water.

As the learn to swim industry continues to grow, the need for well-trained and competent swim instructors becomes increasingly evident. Not only do instructors teach essential skills, but they do so in an aquatic environment that warrants a fundamental understanding of safety and standards.

RECOGNIZING THE NEED FOR A NEW CERTIFICATION:

While traditional swim instructor certifications have served the industry well, the evolving landscape of swimming education necessitates a fresh approach. Our new swim instructor certification, the Certified Fundamental Swim Instructor (CFSI), is designed to educate instructors on the fundamental knowledge that should be held by all instructors, while leaving the curriculum education to the expertise of swim school owners.

THE POWER OF INDUSTRY COLLABORATION:

At the heart of our new certification program lies the recognition that the swim instruction industry can only reach its full potential through collaboration and collective efforts. I would like to recognize the countless hours of writing, reviewing, and editing of content as well as the certification exam by our task force volunteers. The Power of USSSA is strong and our CFSI is a shining example of what we can accomplish when we work together.

As the learn to swim industry continues to evolve, it is essential for professionals to stay at the forefront of innovation and expertise. Our new swim instructor certification represents a vital step towards enhancing the industry’s standards, promoting collaboration, and empowering instructors to provide top-notch instruction. By recognizing the power of industry unity, we can collectively elevate the swimming education landscape, fostering a safer, healthier, and more vibrant aquatic community for all.

I encourage each of you to identify at least one swim instructor at your swim school, to register and start on the path to becoming a CFSI. You can learn more as well as watch FAQ videos at usswimschools.org/cfsi

LISA M. ZARDA, CAE, CNAP Executive Director | US Swim School Association

With a little help from “write an article for a trade magazine that talks about the reasons why a new swim instructor certification we offer is vital to the industry and how we have power together to elevate the industry” prompt. ChatGPT, July 6, 2023, OpenAI, chat.openai.com.

LEADERS SHOULD BE PROBLEM FINDERS, NOT PROBLEM SOLVERS

Problem-solvers may only sometimes tackle the underlying systems and processes that led to the problem. On the other hand, problem-finding is a challenging task that requires expertise, humility, and a commitment to a more significant cause. Unfortunately, problem-finders often go unnoticed as their work happens behind the scenes.

Problem-finders actively seek out problems and take proactive measures to prevent them. They possess intellectual curiosity, systemic thinking, and healthy paranoia. Problem-finders engage in lifelong learning, think systemically, and remain vigilant to hidden dangers. They understand that mishaps are rarely caused by a single event or individual and actively address underlying issues.

Leaders should prioritize the problem-finding mindset to detect and address hidden problems, fostering organizational growth and safety. Problem-finders take responsibility for their mistakes and resolve underlying issues.

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BY AMI KASSAR

Thanks to Rishi Khan for sharing this fascinating article about leadership. The ability to solve problems is highly valued, but it’s important to consider whether solutions genuinely address the root causes.

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THE POWER OF POSITIVE THINKING: UNLOCKING PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL SUCCESS

The ability to maintain an optimistic mindset, even in the face of challenges, can lead to enhanced motivation, improved problem-solving skills, and greater overall well-being. This article explores the various ways in which positive thinking can positively influence both your professional and personal endeavors, ultimately paving the way for success and fulfillment.

ENHANCED RESILIENCE AND ADAPTABILITY

“How can you become a more positive person” prompt. ChatGPT, May 17, 2023, OpenAI,chat.openai.com

Positive thinking enables individuals to develop resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks and persevere in the face of adversity. In professional settings, setbacks are common, whether it’s a project failure or a career disappointment. By adopting a positive mindset, individuals are better equipped to view these setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. Rather than dwelling on failure, positive thinkers are more likely to adapt, find alternative solutions, and embrace change, which can propel their careers forward.

INCREASED MOTIVATION AND PRODUCTIVITY

A positive mindset fuels motivation and productivity. When individuals believe in their abilities and maintain an optimistic

Positive thinking has long been regarded as a powerful tool that can significantly impact an individual’s professional and personal life.

outlook, they are more likely to set ambitious goals and work towards achieving them. Positive thinkers tend to approach challenges with a can-do attitude, embracing them as opportunities for personal and professional growth. This mindset helps them maintain focus, overcome obstacles, and persevere, ultimately leading to increased productivity and success.

ENHANCED PROBLEM-SOLVING AND CREATIVITY

Positive thinking enhances problemsolving abilities by promoting a mindset that is open to new possibilities and alternative solutions. When faced with challenges, positive thinkers tend to approach them with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset. They are more likely to think creatively, generating innovative ideas and exploring different perspectives. This flexibility in thinking allows them to find effective solutions and make informed decisions, leading to professional success.

IMPROVED RELATIONSHIPS AND COLLABORATION

A positive attitude can greatly impact interpersonal relationships and collaboration. Positivity is contagious, and individuals who maintain an optimistic outlook tend to foster positive connections with others. In the professional realm, this can lead to enhanced teamwork, improved communication, and stronger relationships with colleagues, superiors, and clients. Positive thinkers are often seen as approachable, supportive, and inspiring, which can open doors to new opportunities and professional growth.

BETTER PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL-BEING

Positive thinking not only benefits professional life but also has a profound impact on personal well-being. Numerous studies have shown the correlation between positive thinking and improved physical and mental health. Optimistic individuals tend to experience lower stress levels, reduced risk of depression,

and increased overall well-being. This positive state of mind translates into higher energy levels, improved focus, and a greater ability to cope with challenges in both personal and professional aspects of life.

CONCLUSION

The power of positive thinking should not be underestimated. By cultivating an optimistic mindset, individuals can unlock their full potential both professionally and personally. The ability to remain positive in the face of challenges enhances resilience, boosts motivation, stimulates creativity, fosters meaningful relationships, and promotes overall well-being. Embracing positivity not only enables individuals to thrive in their careers but also leads to a more fulfilling and satisfying life. So, start harnessing the power of positive thinking today and witness the transformative impact it can have on your journey towards success.

1. PRACTICE GRATITUDE

Take time each day to reflect on and appreciate the things you are grateful for. This can be as simple as writing down three things you are thankful for each day. Focusing on the positive aspects of your life helps shift your perspective towards a more optimistic outlook.

2. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH POSITIVE INFLUENCES

Surround yourself with supportive and positive individuals who uplift and inspire you. Engage in conversations and activities that promote positivity and personal growth. Limit exposure to negative influences such as pessimistic people or media that brings you down.

3. REFRAME NEGATIVE THOUGHTS

Pay attention to your thoughts and challenge negative thinking patterns. When you catch yourself thinking negatively, consciously reframe those thoughts into more positive and constructive ones. Replace self-criticism with self-encouragement and focus on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.

4. PRACTICE SELF-CARE

Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is essential for

cultivating positivity. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, meditation, or spending time in nature. Prioritize self-care and make it a regular part of your routine.

5. SET REALISTIC GOALS AND CELEBRATE ACHIEVEMENTS

Set realistic goals for yourself and break them down into smaller, achievable steps. As you make progress, celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small. Acknowledging your achievements boosts your confidence and fosters a positive mindset.

6. PRACTICE POSITIVE SELF-TALK

Be mindful of how you talk to yourself. Replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations and words of encouragement. Treat yourself with kindness, compassion, and understanding, just as you would treat a friend.

7. PRACTICE MINDFULNESS

Cultivate mindfulness by living in the present moment and being aware of your thoughts and emotions without judgment. Mindfulness helps you develop a more positive and accepting attitude towards yourself and others.

8. LEARN FROM FAILURE AND CHALLENGES

Instead of viewing failure and challenges as setbacks, see them as opportunities for

growth and learning. Embrace the lessons they offer and focus on how you can improve and overcome future obstacles.

9. PRACTICE RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS

Engage in acts of kindness towards others, whether it’s a simple gesture like offering a compliment, helping someone in need, or volunteering your time for a charitable cause. Acts of kindness not only benefit others but also bring a sense of fulfillment and positivity to your own life.

10. MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Take care of your physical health by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, contributing to a positive outlook.

Remember, developing a positive mindset takes time and consistent effort. Be patient with yourself and embrace the process. Over time, these strategies will help you become a more positive person and experience the many benefits that come with it.

BECOMING A MORE POSITIVE PERSON IS A JOURNEY THAT REQUIRES CONSCIOUS EFFORT AND PRACTICE. HERE ARE SOME STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU CULTIVATE A POSITIVE MINDSET

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WHAT’S YOUR WHY? DEFINING EVERYTHING FROM YOUR SWIM SCHOOL’S ENVIRONMENT TO YOUR MARKETING CONTENT

I was once asked to write a guest column for Forward Florida: Economic Development News. The assignment was explained to me this way: “We will be highlighting business horror stories from CEOs, leaders, entrepreneurs, and influencers who will share how they overcame that challenge.”

With my husband’s and my company Florida Swim Network, we had some plenty of horror stories. We routinely had twelve-hour days poolside, sweating it out in the Florida sun while attempting to keep our broadcasting equipment dry and cool, and there were many, many times my husband Joe and I looked at each other and asked, “Why are we doing this again?”

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BY BESS AUER COMMUNITY BUILDER AT UNIO

YOU MUST ANSWER THE WHY Answering that question -- Why are we doing this? -- is key, not just to you, but to your community, too. If they don’t know why you are doing something, then they won’t care that you are doing anything at all. The Why is what makes you relevant. The Why is where the power lies, so stop right now and ask yourself, “Why am I building this community?”

Therein lies the Unio. What is your intention in building this community?

Some answers are easy. It’s my family. I was assigned to this team by my boss. My livelihood depends on it. Other answers are not so easy, even if your livelihood does depend on it.

For Joe and me, Florida Swim Network started as a hobby. We started live streaming swim meets long before it was the norm. Periscope and Facebook Live were still years away and Justin TV and Ustream were in their infancy. Nobody had thought to live stream any age group sports yet. But there we were, broadcasting the races and treating young athletes like Olympians.

However, The Why didn’t immediately click for us. We thought we were just live streaming swimming.

It wasn’t until the end of that first year after we finished broadcasting a Junior Olympics meet, that it finally clicked. A parent named Eric Ordaz came up to us with tears streaming down his face. His teenage son had just completed a spectacular meet, and Mr. Ordaz said to us, “My parents live in Panama and have never been able to see their grandson swim. They just saw your broadcast and got to watch him for the first time ever.”

Then it hit us. Like a tidal wave: That was The Why

WHAT ARE YOU REALLY DOING?

If someone had asked us for our Why before the encounter with Mr. Ordaz, Joe and I may have said we were in the live stream business. We may have said we covered competitive swimming. But what became obvious after Mr. Ordaz pointed it out was that our real purpose, our real business, was connecting families.

Florida is a transient state with new families coming and going each year. Today’s children live far away from their

grandparents, and extended families can be spread across the world.

We enabled these far-flung families to come together. Parents who were serving overseas got to watch their children swim in championship meets, like Will, Pat, and Drew Tabor’s mom, who got up in the middle of the night in Afghanistan to watch her boys swim and join us in the chat room. She was able to give a shout-out in real-time as they swam, and the boys could then hear it as they watched themselves swim on the replay. We allowed parents in Italy and South Africa to watch their children swim for colleges here in Florida, and we made it possible for other swimmers to go live on air to wish “Happy Mother’s Day” to their grandmother in Spain. One time we lost wifi, and I knew a swim dad who had been working in India for six months was tuning in to watch his son. We eventually found wifi again, and after the triathlon was completed, we put the headphones and mic on the swimmer to talk to his dad in India live for several minutes. It was their first time seeing each other face-toface in months. Those are meaningful connections.

We were not really marketing swimming. We were marketing love and family.

WHAT DO YOU MEAN TO YOUR COMMUNITY MEMBERS?

Our swim families came to rely on us. We were asked by teams to spread the word to the swimming community about coaches’ deaths, swimmers’ suicides, and fundraisers for terminally ill swim parents. We mourned those tragedies right along with our swim families. But we also celebrated the good times, too.

Take Olympic swimmer Caeleb Dressel. We covered some of his first swim meets as a young teenager, conducting his first-ever interview. We were there for his high school state championships, and we were there when he signed to swim at the University of Florida. We were also there when he set his first American Record, and we were the first to interview Caeleb when he made his first Olympic team in 2016. And we were there in Rio when he won his first Olympic gold medal. In fact, Caeleb’s family ended up staying with us

in our house in Rio because they waited too long to find a place to stay!

The swim network Joe and I created was there for some of the most memorable events of Caeleb and his family’s lives, just as we were there for our other members’ entire lives. We documented their meaningful moments, and we had the honor of being the platform swimmers could use to share these special times with their extended families and swim clubs back home.

That. Was. Our. Why.

To our swimmers, we meant communication, camaraderie, and support. To the families who tuned in, we provided poolside seats for the important moments of their loved ones’ lives. To all of our members, we meant something critical: connection

USE THE WHY

Once you are sure of The Why, whether it is making learning fun or connecting families or whatever else compels you to build community, everything else can be weighed against it to keep you going forward with intention and direction. There will always be stumbling blocks, but that headache you are experiencing right this very minute? Whatever that problem is that you are having, community-wise, push it up against The Why and see if it is an obstacle that is worth overcoming. Then keep moving.

Evaluating against the Why is important for businesses, too. If you are a brand, ask yourself about that piece of content you just created. Does it align with The Why? Does it further The Why? If so, use it. If not, don’t. Period.

That new marketing slogan? Does it convey your Why? Does it tell your fans why you are doing what you do?

Everything, from business practices to marketing content, must evolve from The Why. If it does, decisions become easier, the path becomes clearer, and your fans become more loyal.

REWRITE (OR WRITE) YOUR MISSION STATEMENT

First, have your leadership look at WHAT service you actually perform (not what you sell). For example, if you sell cleaning products, what is the service for your customers? You deliver a clean, safer environment for their families,

right? If you sell software solutions, what you sell isn’t so much the software as it is the ability to make your clients’ lives easier.

Next, have your employees define HOW you do what you do. If you’re a cleaning products company, perhaps you deliver products in sustainable packaging or in a convenient monthly box subscription. If you’re a software service, perhaps you bring superior round-the-clock tech support to your clients.

Finally, get those surveys and customer polls ready and ask a few key questions to see just what you do for your customers. WHY are they fans? What do they think you do for them?

Once you have the what, how, and why parts fleshed out, you are ready to write your mission statement. And to do this, you want to follow the basic formula that is similar to “We do X for Y by Z.”

At Florida Swim Network, our mission statement was: “We connect families, swimmers, and coaches around the world by creating interactive live streams and social media content.”

For FLBlogCon, our annual blogging conference, our mission was: “We’re Florida bloggers helping other influencers hone their craft in a safe, inclusive environment.”

SMALL TEAM MISSION STATEMENT

For our microcommunities -- the corporate work teams, the school classrooms, the family communities -the same principle applies to the what, how, and why. If you define your Why and take the time to write a mission statement, you will be amazed at how clear your path becomes in everything you do once you place the Why as the shining light to guide you.

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BUILDING RESILIENCE: THRIVING IN A VUCA WORLD

BY JOHN SPENCE

We live in a VUCA world. Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous.

Every day there are new difficulties to face. Economic turbulence, political upheaval, global instability, and a myriad of personal and professional issues. At times it can feel overwhelming. To move forward in trying times, we must accept that life does not get easier or more forgiving. We get stronger and more resilient.

Resilience is the ability to adapt, recover, and bounce back from adversity or challenges while maintaining or regaining mental, emotional, and physical well-being. If you sometimes struggle to overcome hardships and adversity, here are a few practical tools to help you be more resilient.

ARE YOU TELLING A STORY?

Some people are great at catastrophizing. A simple problem becomes seemingly insurmountable. They tell themselves that the situation is terrible, will get worse, will last a long time, will affect all their lives negatively, and is their fault.

This is a bad story to tell yourself. To overcome this distressful plot, simply ask yourself these questions. How bad is it, really? How long will it truly last? What parts of my life will this actually impact? Is this really my fault? In almost all cases, the answers put things into a much more manageable perspective. Also, if you’re going to tell yourself a story, why not tell yourself a good one?

REFRAME SETBACKS AS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR GROWTH

Think of a time that you failed at something, and it turned out to be a blessing. I failed college on the first try. It was humiliating. However, on the second try, I graduated in the top four in the United States in my major and went on to have a flourishing career. Had I not gotten kicked out of the first school, I would not be where I am today. That fortunate failure led to my eventual success. When has failure turned out to be your friend?

FOCUS ON EVENTS YOU CAN CONTROL

One of the most powerful skills you can acquire is the ability to discern what you can control and take massive action on that, then let go of everything you cannot control. The list of things you can control is finite and manageable.

• Your thoughts and beliefs

• Your attitude and outlook on life

• Your emotions and how you react to them

• Your actions and behaviors

• Your communication and language use

• Your habits and routines

• Your finances and budgeting

• Your personal and professional development

• Your relationships and social interactions

• Your environment and surroundings

• Your goals and aspirations

• Your time management and productivity

• Your spiritual or religious practices

Essentially, you can control your behavior and how you react to what happens to you. On the other hand, the list of things you cannot control is very long. At the top of it is other people. The ability to focus on what you can control and let go of what you cannot is a superpower.

We all face challenges in our lives. Problems arise. We are treated unfairly. We stumble and fail. Things do not go as planned. When these things happen to you, be strong. Remember that you have encountered difficulties before and have overcome them. With grit, determination, and resilience, you can handle whatever life might flow your way.

Reprinted with permission.

John helps businesses and people be more successful and is one of the top business and leadership experts in the world.

USSSA READY, SET, SWIM GETTING TO KNOW YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS

If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?

TRACY KOLEBER

NITRO SWIMMING

If I could have one superpower, it would be the ability to always think before I speak. Often times, I let my emotions and short fuse formulate my response and escape my mouth too quickly.

BUFFY FOLISE

CHICAGO SWIM SCHOOL

The superpower I would love to have is time manipulation. I’d love to be able to slow down or speed up time, which would be incredibly useful in many situations. I could travel through time and go back to any moment, like looking back at my kids when they were little or even making business decisions differently. It would also give me the ability to pause time which would help me take a moment to think or make a quick escape!

DAVINA LOPEZ

DAVINA’S SWIM HOUSE

Aside from being able to fly that would just be fun and cool to not be stuck in traffic and see things from a birds eye view!! I would love to have Mind reading capabilities - Wouldn’t it just be nice to know how to make people happy!

DEBBIE SAYERS

DOLFUN SWIM ACADEMY & DOLFUN DYNAMICS

My super power would be to be a Dynamic Dreamer where I would have laser focus to be able to see what could really happen when we allow a DREAM to go beyond the typical imagination, to understand the big picture designed for our life and being bold enough to intertwine the willingness to have faith beyond what we can see AND more importantly, inspire others to do the same! Where we can truly sing altogether “ Don’t Stop Believin’” by: Journey

ANN MARIE SUNDERHAUS

HUBBARD FAMILY SWIM SCHOOL

For work - The ability to hire and train the best people for each role at the swim school in one week. Who is with me??

For life - The ability to teleport. I love to travel and see new places, as well as visit family and friends.

MELISSA TAYLOR

SMALL FISH BIG FISH SWIM SCHOOL

The ability to fly would grant me the freedom and a unique perspective on the world. I could travel quickly and effortlessly, exploring new places and experiencing the thrill of soaring through the skies.

ROSE CHOLEWINSKI

SWIMAMERICA - DAVIS

To clone me :).....Specifically the experience I have gained over the last 25+ years and magically place that knowledge in every person we hire. Why? To effectively and lovingly teach our kiddos.

LISA ZARDA

USSSA

If I could have one superpower it would be the ability to give people the skills and understanding to reach their full potential. I truly feel that if we are all able to grow and be our best selves, that there is nothing we can’t accomplish together.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FOR MORE DETAILS, VISIT: USSWIMSCHOOLS.ORG/EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 7-8, 2023

CERTIFIED POOL AND SPA OPERATOR (CPO) COURSE

VIRTUAL

SEPTEMBER 11, 2023

SUSTAINABILITY INNOVATORS

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SEPTEMBER 14, 2023

INFANT TODDLER EDUCATION WORKSHOP

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OCTOBER 2-4, 2023

USSSA NATIONAL CONFERENCE

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OCTOBER 25, 2023

USSSA LARGE SCHOOLS HUDDLE

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NOVEMBER 1-3, 2023

CANADIAN SWIM SCHOOL

ALLIANCE 2023 CONFERENCE

TORONTO, ON

DECEMBER 6, 2023

HUMAN RESOURCES SEMINAR

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JANUARY 16-18, 2024

2024 INTERNATIONAL SWIM SCHOOLS SPECTACULAR DUBAI

FEBRUARY 20-21, 2024

USSSA SPRING WORKSHOP

ASHEVILLE, NC

SEPTEMBER 29 – OCTOBER 1, 2024

USSSA NATIONAL CONFERENCE

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THE CORAL REEF ADVENTURE CREATING AN IMAGINATIVE EXPERIENCE

Hunter dives down towards a beautiful array of colors. As he swims underwater, he is struck by the majestic sea creatures scattered below.

He catches a glimpse of something shiny glistening further down. He eagerly scoops and kicks to go even deeper to discover there is hidden treasure at the bottom. He quickly grabs a piece of treasure, swims back up to the surface for air, to hear praises from his swim instructor. The 5-year-old Hunter is delighted and smiles for having experienced the Coral Reef Adventure.

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CASIE SHORE, SWIM TO SHORE SWIM SCHOOL

The idea for this Halloween tradition that we host annually at Swim to Shore was generated in a conference session at one of the USSSA’s national events a few years back, where the speaker talked about incorporating weekly themes into their lessons. Although our school leadership didn’t end up implementing a rotation of themes into our program, sparks of creativity flew after hearing the talk and we were inspired to create an imaginative experience for our students.

As our staff brainstormed ideas, we reflected on how much excitement and joy our colorful aquarium brings to our students. Week after week upon their arrival the children come into our facility and make a beeline to see what’s new in the fish tank. And then the idea came to us: We need to create a kid-sized coral reef experience for our swimmers.

We grabbed some extra dri-dek tiles we had on hand and connected them to make a 4-foot by 7-foot base. We purchased various plastic plants and garlands at Joanne’s and zip-tied them all over the tiles to make an “ocean floor.” Next, we secured a medley of large sized aquarium plants to add lots of color. Then we added a variety of large ocean themed toys, like sharks, seals, dolphins, turtles, whales, starfish, shells, and their favorite… a pirate ship. The final touch was dropping randomly placed bright, shiny bead necklaces throughout the reef to add a treasure-like glimmer.

Our coral reef cost $400 dollars to make and we’ve had it for 7 years now. We re-purchase inexpensive bead necklaces each year so the students can keep a piece of the “treasure” they found. The reef rolls up nicely and can be put on a shelf for easy storage. For minimal cost and years of explorative fun and adventure, our Coral Reef is a treasured experience we all look forward to year after year.

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USSSA NATIONAL CONFERENCE: CELEBRATE THE POWER OF USSSA!

For the past 35 years, we have been building a community of people who just get each other. For three days this October, we will get a chance to celebrate that community while gaining invaluable knowledge and connections that will support you for the next 35 years, along with friendships that will last a lifetime! The conference will take place at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, FL from October 2-4. Ranked 9th by Conde Nast Traveler’s 2021 Reader’s Choice Award for Top Orlando Resorts, this luxurious property is filled with amenities and activities to enjoy during your stay.

The three days will be filled with over 20 sessions that are tailored to the learn-to-swim industry, networking sessions, 3 lunches and 3 receptions, plus the Awards Banquet! Four keynote speakers will be featured throughout the event, including Dr. Regina Lewis who received a standing ovation during last year’s National Conference. In addition, we have author and time management expert, Laura Vanderkam along with Emotional Intelligence expert, Teresa Quinlan scheduled to speak on Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Bess Auer will wrap the conference up with her session on staff retention and growth.

Don’t miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and your business! Early bird registration closes August 16 and online registration closes September 8. Check out the USSSA website for further details, registration, and hotel details to set up your reservation! OCTOBER 2-4, 2023 USSSA

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YODA SAYS...

We are privileged to serve many businesses and organizations that operate pools. If you multiply the pools by the years, I think we have well over 200 pool years. Our techs age in dog years. We started tracking equipment failure and cost to individual assets in 2011. We found that about 3% of all the assets contribute to more than half the trouble and cost. That’s some leverage if you are paying attention. If we can identify and focus on the root causes, we will have fewer problems to deal with.

“Fix the leak before you mop up the floor” - Dad Pool heaters fail often.

“I hate a pool heater” - Pool builder that will remain nameless. Here I’m going to discuss preventing problems with pool heaters that use natural gas or propane as the heating source as this is the type we see fail most often. It may get a little techy, but just know what we are talking about is improving reliability and reducing costs. That makes for more universal happiness.

There are two primary areas we can look at to prevent problems.

1. Combustion

2. Water Flow

Combustion – Gas and propane heaters use combustion to convert fuel into a heat source.

Combustion needs 3 things; Fuel, Spark, and Oxygen.

A lack of oxygen for combustion is a core problem. Many times these heaters are installed in a pump room. There is not adequate air introduced into the room for efficient combustion. When the heater has too little air, the fuel/air mixture is too rich; Too much fuel and not enough air. This makes the heater burn “dirty” and you will

BY CHUCK MOBLEY FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT OF THERMAL CONDITIONING, INC.

“Like balancing a bowling ball on a pencil lead”. This a quote from my dad I heard many times as a kid. He would use it to describe a complex system. A complex system is one with many components and they all affect each other. That is a pool environment, for sure! I tell people I was raised by Yoda.

get soot build up on the heat exchanger. Too much soot and the heat cannot go up and out the flue. The outside of the heater cabinet starts to get hot, and the paint on the heater starts to discolor. This will result in total failure and worse, a potential fire hazard.

What can we do?

Follow manufacturer suggestions and your local codes for proper combustion air.

Another issue we see a lot is chemicals being stored in the room with the heater. Fire needs oxygen for clean combustion. Air that has a high concentration of chemicals will have a detrimental effect on the combustion and reduce the life of the heat exchanger and can be a fire and health hazard. On a scale of good to not good, this is not good.

Water Flow – As water flows through the heat exchanger, it absorbs heat from the combustion that is taking place. Quite literally, there is a fire burning below the heat exchanger that is heating the water that flows through it.

Now imagine if you were to reduce the water flow by half. What would happen? If you had the same amount of heat energy but half the water, what would be the result? The water leaving the heater is hotter. Much hotter!

Problems with water flow may be the thing that destroys most heaters. You have to think like Goldie Locks; Not too little, not too much. We need it just right. Too little water flow leads to overheating and too much leads to the heat exchanger being fouled. Both conditions lead to early failure and expense.

It is critical. Every manufacturer has parameters for the minimum and maximum water flow through their heaters. Next time you are in your pump room or wherever your heater is, look to see how much water is flowing through the heater and if it is within those parameters. That is a loaded ask. In most installations, you have no way of knowing. This is not good.

There needs to be a way to know the flow rate through the heater and if that flow is within the parameters.

Some manufacturers will have a thermostatically installed governor to regulate water flow. We’ve seen many of these devices fail. Don’t trust it. A governor may tell you one thing and do another, as sometimes governors will do.

So there we go. Make sure we have adequate combustion air and are flowing the right amount of water through the heater. This will dramatically improve reliability and save you thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs. There was so much I would like to share, but I’m running out of space and word count.

Oh and thanks, Yoda. You did a great job as a dad.

3% of all equipment causes more than half the problems and cost. That’s leverage if you are paying attention” - Chuck

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WHY EXERCISE MATTERS TO EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

BY TERESA QUINLAN

Type the words ‘exercise’ and ‘stress’ into your search browser and see how many articles, studies, videos, etc. pop up. Guaranteed every single one of them confirms that exercise is an important part of stress management (and more!).

This article isn’t about proving that exercise is important for stress management. This is about why exercise matters to emotional intelligence for which Stress Management is one of the 5 realms. Below you will find 2 key lessons. For each lesson I provide an exercise that will help you to navigate growth in the related emotional intelligence skill, and ‘watch out’ tips intended to help you side step potential pitfalls.

In the workplace, stress management skills are important when you are faced with tight deadlines, multiple demands,

high stakes, and loads of responsibility. In the home, stress management skills help you manage a busy household with lots of moving parts. All while taking care of yourself – first.

Too many people put themselves too low on the totem pole which results in elevated stress levels.

Why is this?

I’ve spent several years investigating the answer to this question and the results are not just compelling, they are consistent.

“I feel selfish when I put myself before other people and I don’t want to be seen that way by other people.”

Every time I’ve gotten this answer I ask the question: “How is that working out for you and your stress, how you feel about yourself, and in-particular your value or self-worth?”

Inevitably the individual has a difficult time answering this question. Often, they first look down, then look up with tears in their eyes. “It’s not. But I don’t know how to change that without feeling selfish.”

LESSON #1

The way other people perceive you ain’t none of your business.

It isn’t a trade off between you or selfishness. Either I take care of myself and I feel selfish or I don’t take care of myself and I feel badly about not. This kind of polar extreme thinking gets a lot of people stuck for WAY too many years.

How other people perceive you has nothing to do with you. Especially if they are people that are not your friends, are not interested in you shining, are not on your ‘side’, want you to fail. How they perceive you has everything to do with them. They are simply reflecting their own feelings about themselves onto you. This is typical behaviour of wanting to connect. I feel selfish and therefore I want you to feel selfish; I feel rejected and therefore I want you to feel rejected. Feel like me so we can be connected, and I can no longer feel alone.

Breaking the cycle of polar extreme thinking comes down to your self-regard

(under the self-perception realm) and development of knowing your strengths, your weaknesses, who you are, and what puts you at your best. Self-regard is largely an awareness skill.

Exercise:

1. Talk with people that are important and close to you.

2. Ask them what they see as your personal strengths; find out why they picked these.

3. Ask them about your weaknesses and specifically how they see you improving in these areas. Take this list and look objectively. REMEMBER these are people that are important and close to you – this means you trust them and value their opinions. This also means they have the best for you in mind.

4. Decide on the first shortcoming, set a goal, and specifically chart the actions you will take to develop.

Example:

Weakness – Don’t connect well with people on a personal level.

Goal – Get to know people better. Strategy – When meeting people focus the conversation on asking questions about them. Start small and work toward more intimate things. Ask questions about work, family, hobbies, interests, dreams and goals. Share yours after learning about theirs so the sharing and connection is reciprocal.

WATCH OUT!

When you look at yourself objectively your self-confidence can take a ‘hit’. In turn, this can elevate your negative selftalk and stress. This is a by-product of peeling away the layers. Be aware that this may happen to you and combat this with EXERCISE. More importantly…exercise in nature. If you can, get yourself into trails amongst trees and wildlife rather than the gym.

Give yourself some forest therapy. https://youtu.be/ETtFCEEcL3k

LESSON #2

Largely suffering from ‘low on the totem pole-itis’ women can have a tendency to struggle with messaging from their youth that giving to themselves is selfish. In fact, many have learned this from their mother’s, who learned it from theirs, who learned it from theirs, and so on.

My intention is not to exclude men, nor use a generalization that it’s just women. It’s definitely not and this is not my intention. Self-care is not selfish is a message to be heard by all genders!

What are the lessons you were taught from a young age that have produced the negative tapes and the beliefs that taking time for yourself is selfish? Do you really believe this to be true…or is this just old messaging that needs to be erased and replaced with new messaging?

Self-Actualization (emotional intelligence skill in the self-perception realm) is all about striving to reach your potential and involves pursuits that lead to your meaning, purposeful, and fulfilling life. Old messaging cannot be part of that! This skill is an ongoing and dynamic one; one in which you will find great joy as a result of focusing on.

Exercise:

1. Put on your investigators hat and trace your history. What’s the earliest memories you have that relate to learning about self-care and selfishness? Can you bring yourself back to those memories, those lessons, the people, the language used, the feelings you felt?

2. Debate, dispute and discard with facts. If you need to, look up as much as you can about self-care and optimal performance. There’s a lot of this out there to support finding a new message.

3. Create your new messaging. This works best when you can create it as a mantra. What’s your 1-line, sacred chant, that you will be able to use when you need the reminder that taking time to take care of yourself is important, good, valuable, necessary? Need help? This article provides 77 quotes for selfcare. https://www.developgoodhabits.c om/self-care-quotes/

4. Create a list of all the things that you count as self-care.

a. Exercise

b. Sleep

c. Nutrition

d. Massage

e. Chiropractic

f. Meditation

g. Yoga

h. Reading

i. Manicure/Pedicure/Hair

j. Time with friends/family

k. Time with spouse

5. Build yourself a 1-month schedule at the start of every month, that you are confident you will achieve. As you become more accustomed to selfcare, you will be able to increase frequency, duration, etc. Put your schedule where it is highly visible and where at least 1 supporter can see it.

6. Create your exception list. There are times when life throws you emergencies that will trump self-care. Create this list in advance. Only when one of these things pops up, do you sacrifice your self-care commitment for the day. And you may not need to drop it all together. You may just need to change the time of day is happens.

WATCH OUT!

People who have been confirming your internal message that self-care is selfish, will make their presence known during your transformation. They will challenge you. Be ready for them and greet them with empathy, kindness, and love. The same 3 things you are giving to yourself!

Tip #1: Make your self-care goals known to those that are important to you. These are your advocates and supporters. They can also help to hold you accountable to the specifics of your plan or be partners in action!

Tip #2: Make your self-care goals known to those that will remind you that self-care is selfish. Go on the offensive rather than the defensive. Your vulnerability and courage may inspire them to join you!

Tip #3: Create a reward system. One of the things that is necessary for breaking habits and starting new behaviours is to reward your success. At the end of each month, for achieving 100% of your self-care commitments, give yourself a reward. Could be a new workout outfit. Could be a fancy dinner out with your significant other. Could be anything!

Let’s return to this quote from earlier in the article:

“I feel selfish when I put myself before other people and I don’t want to be seen that way by other people.”

“How is that working out for you and your stress, how you feel about yourself, and in-particular your value or selfworth?”

“It’s not. But I don’t know how to change that without feeling selfish.”

My hope for all who read this article is that the exercises help you navigate toward changes that manifest themselves in a stronger sense of self, eliminating high levels of stress that are counter-productive to shining brightly, soaring high, and living to your fullest potential by giving to yourself first so that you can give more fully to others.

As an Executive coach, leadership specialist, master facilitator, and speaker, I am an advocate for exceptional performance that is a direct result of each individual knowing how to be personally responsible for using their attributes, their IQ, and most importantly, their EQ, in reaching their highest potential and applying that potential to a collective goal.

Teresa Quinlan

Ms. Quinlan will be speaking at the USSSA National Conference this October in Orlando, FL. Come see her session on Wednesday, October 4 at 9 am!

Check out the USSSA website for further details, registration, and hotel details to set up your reservation!

ASK AL

BY ALVARO G. MENDOZA COMMERCIAL ENERGY SPECIALISTS, INC.

WE ARE LOOKING AT BUILDING A NEW SWIM SCHOOL POOL IN A LEASED WAREHOUSE SPACE, AND WANTED TO REVIEW SOME OF THE BASICS, SOME DO’S AND DON’TS, AND SEE IF THERE ARE ANY NEW OPTIONS FOR USING ABOVE GRADE POOLS, ETC.

Welcome back to our “Ask the Expert” feature, designed to assist you with issues related to swimming pool water, mechanical equipment, space conditioning, and code compliance. Ask a question, and we will try to answer to the best of our ability.

Besides a review of the basics and do’s and don’ts, the options depend on the amount of space you have, your budget, and whether the landlord allows you to cut the concrete floor or not. Here goes.

SPACE CONSIDERATIONS:

Many DOH codes require a minimum 4-5’ deck space all the way around the pool, and some successful swim schools prefer to have stairs (for parents and/or kids), and / or a 8-10’ “staging” area on one side of the pool. So if you want a 20 x 40 pool (800 sq ft), then your deck area could easily be 30 x 53 or (1,590 sq ft) or larger. As you can see, space adds up quickly so plan carefully. This is also your “wet area” and is the main variable to size your dehumidification system, so the larger the wet area, the larger and more costly your system will be.

SKIMMER VERSUS GUTTER POOLS:

Skimmer pools draw water though strategically placed ports throughout the pool, while gutter pools draw water through a trough around the entire perimeter. For the water quality purist, the gutter pool gives you much better distribution of water (as well as chemicals and heat) and will probably help prevent some chloramines from forming (as there are fewer potential dead spots), but skimmer pools are cheaper to build. Many codes have a maximum size for skimmer pools. In Florida it is 1,000 Sq Ft, but in other parts of the country it might be 1,800 Sq Ft. Some state codes are pretty weak, and have no restrictions. In any event you should have as many skimmer ports to provide a maximum of 50 GPM per skimmer, or (4) for a typical 20 x 40 pool…. but few builders will follow that guideline unless forced to.

IN-GROUND OR ABOVE GROUND:

Simple put, you can either have the pool in the ground, or above the ground. The issue with above ground pools is that some state or local health codes do not allow them to be built. Sometimes the issue is one of type of materials, piping, methods of construction, etc. that does not meet published codes. Other times the issue is that these pools don’t have the proper mechanical design elements: including adequate main drains, skimmers, return jets every “X” feet, etc.

Even if you are allowed to build an above ground pool, another issue is that there are few options for larger versions, and few options are available in sizes

as large as the average 20 x 40 pool. Exceptions are discussed below.

HOW ABOUT VIEWING:

Most swim schools take great pride in providing ample viewing area for parents and guests. But, above ground pools provide a challenge not only for viewing areas but for decks as well. There have been a few examples of how this can be successfully done, and you will need to have a creative architect on staff who can deal with the elevation changes and how it impacts ADA, people moving, and parental viewing.

CAN’T CUT CONCRETE, THERE ARE ALTERNATIVES:

If your landlord absolutely won’t allow you to cut the concrete, you may be forced to provide one of the “newer” above grade pool alternatives, including “recycled shipping container” pools, stainless steel modular pools, and built on site fiberglass pools, among others.

The cost used to be considered higher than a traditional pool, but postpandemic pricing and busy contractor schedules have made it comparable in price. These pools often are quicker to build and give you more alternatives down the road, so many are starting to look at this option.

These pools can also be a great strategy if you have a shorter lease, or don’t have a lot of confidence that your existing neighborhood will stay attractive, convenient, or safe. We’ve all seen neighborhoods go bad, and this alternative gives you another way out.

SUMMARY:

An in-ground skimmer pool is the least costly alternative but, as reviewed above, not necessarily the best. Given a special situation you may want to look at other alternatives as described.

While there should be a variety of capable pool builders for a smaller 800 Sq Ft or below pool, the list appears to dwindle quickly as the pool size increases, especially in some parts of the US. Regardless here are the most common pool construction mistakes that should be avoided at all costs:

Improper turnover rate

• You should aim for 120-minute turnover rate if you are planning on holding anywhere near 1,000 lessons a week.

• The minimum turnover rate for 500 lessons a week should be 180-240 minutes.

• Most “residential” builders or engineers don’t follow these guidelines.

• In-ground pipe sizes are critical, and impossible or costly to fix later.

Improper or residential-grade equipment

• Indoor pools are very tough to operate and require good 24/7 control of chemistry, flow, heat, etc.

• UV on school pools is a must to maintain non-irritating water quality.

• It seems best not to let your pool company make equipment choices, as they are in it for the short run…. and many times they don’t really believe that you are going to run thousands of kids through your small indoor pool.

Hope this helped, but let us know if you have any additional questions.

Please feel free to forward your questions and comments through the USSSA office, or directly to me via email at amendoza@ceswaterquality.com.

Best Regards, Alvaro

G. Mendoza

POWER OF USSSA FROM THE EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Where else could we cumulate the mass of knowledge that we share each month, and even more so, at our annual conferences? We have the power of numbers, and an amazing knowledge base of different locations, cultures, educational backgrounds, school sizes, school ages, and experience. Above that, I have never heard of an association that openly shares knowledge like we do.

We are currently in unchartered territory, with proposed bills and regulation openly discussed in state houses, that will ultimately affect us all. This association is not like most associations, businesses or corporations, which react to changes thrust upon them. We are PROactive, with a seat at the table where decisions are made, whether it be the safety regulations for COVID, the determination of essential businesses, or the guidelines and regulation of swim instructors. Being proactive is our most powerful asset, and it’s no small task to determine where the table is, who to contact to get a seat, and getting our narrative into the discussion. Even more so, being proactive enough to determine our future needs, and getting things in place before the indeterminant deadline.

With the imminent forecast of regulations and required certifications for all swim instructors state by state, the USSSA assembled an amazing taskforce to formulate a comprehensive certification program.

The Education Committee has also been working diligently on the details for over 5 years assembling a course for swim instructors teaching preschool students. Our association sees what is on the horizon legislatively and understands what the future needs will be to best serve the members in the longterm. With the depth of experience and variety of approaches the committee members provided a magnitude of resources. Getting that knowledge organized, streamlined, produced, photographed and videotaped, edited, narrated, branded and loaded into just the right learning platform, has been challenging. It has taken a great deal of thoughtful consideration, finding the right professional help, and getting each section across the finish line. All of this accomplished with 95% volunteer hours and services, from people who believe in the mission!

Through our sheer numbers and experience, we are thankfully not alone in this amazing swim school industry, with our very capable organization leading the way!

USSSA, preparing and equipping our members, ahead of regulatory requirements.

We are so blessed to have a national association, with extremely valuable international members!

United States Swim School Association United States Swim School Association

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NYWSC PUSHES HOSPITAL MATERNITY VIDEO BILL THROUGH STATE LEGISLATURE

Formed in 2020 in response to the pandemic, the New York Water Safety Coalition (NYWSC) began as a group of swim schools working together to lobby state & local officials to safely reopen indoor pools.

BY BRENDAN O’MELVENY FOUNDER, NYWSC

Once COVID-related restrictions were lifted, we decided to stay together, with the goal of advancing legislation that would reduce drownings across our state and raise awareness of how important it is to learn how to swim.

We’ve advocated for several bills since then, including one that created a statesponsored commission to study childhood drowning. That bill passed last year, with one of our members now serving as the commission’s vice-chair.

As a group, we frequently discuss ideas for new drowning prevention bills. Typically, we evaluate an idea’s potential impact on drowning rates first, then its potential business impact on member schools, and finally its legislative and operational feasibility. Most of our ideas have yet to make it off the drawing board. Some have been successful. Others have garnered widespread political support before being sidelined due to poor timing - like our drowning prevention public awareness campaign bill, which passed through the Senate but ran out of time at the end of the legislative session before it could receive a final vote in the Assembly. One bill in particular, though, became a favorite among coalition members because of its common sense nature, ease of implementation, & high impact potential.

Continued on next page...

NYWSC executive members on a lobbying visit to the State Capitol in Albany, NY

The bill, modeled after the “shaken baby video” law in place in New York and other states, requires hospitals to offer new parents a brief, stateapproved video during the mother’s maternity stay highlighting the dangers of drowning for infants and young children. We figured, if drowning is the leading cause of death for children under five and many parents do not understand all the risk factors that lead to these deaths, why aren’t we educating parents about water safety from the time their children are born?

With the help of our lobbyist, we created a strategy to get this bill passed into law. The USSSA helped us create a pilot video to show to representatives and other stakeholders. We met with key lawmakers who have shown interest in water safety issues in the past. We found a senator and an assembly member to champion our bill as sponsors. Then we met with numerous other representatives on the issue.

During these meetings, we shared data that demonstrated the scope of the problem, the risk factors that contribute to drowning, and the increased risk for minorities, low-income households, and individuals with special needs. We shared a map that plots 6 years of recent drowning deaths in the state to show, with great visual impact, that drowning affects New Yorkers in every political district.

We also shared evidence that backs up key drowning prevention measures, like the National Institutes of Health (NIH) study which showed that participation in formal swim instruction can reduce a young child’s risk of drowning by an astounding 88%. The majority of these officials expressed surprise at the fact that drowning is a leading cause of death among children. All of them indicated that the hospital video bill is a common sense measure that should garner broad support. Most of them signed on as co-sponsors.

Some individuals did express concern that new mothers are already inundated with an overwhelming amount of health & safety information during their hospital maternity stay, suggesting that we shouldn’t add yet another item to that list. We found that an effective way to address such concerns was to share the CDC’s bar graphs that show causes of death for children by age group. Seeing drowning at the top of the chart for kids 1-4 years of age, and second only to automobile accidents for those 5-14, was enough to convince anyone with doubts.

After jumping through all the different legislative hoops & passing through a variety of committees, our “hospital video bill” finally found its way to the senate floor, where it passed with unanimous support. Its companion bill in the Assembly eventually made it to the floor as well, though an “eleventh hour” procedural hiccup prevented it from making it onto a decisive

Drowning deaths in New York State, 2015 - 2021

http://wisqars.cdc.gov/data/lcd/home

committee agenda. Fortunately, our lobbying firm stepped in to save the day, leveraging political relationships nurtured over decades of working in Albany to get the bill “re-referenced”, or transferred to a different committee. This enabled it to be considered before the end of the legislative session. To our great delight, it subsequently sailed through to a full vote on the Assembly floor just in time to be passed with unanimous approval.

Having passed both sides of the legislature, we now wait for our bill to be transmitted to the governor’s desk. This could happen anytime between now and the end of the year. With drowning rates on the rise and summer in full swing, we now turn our focus to encouraging the governor to make the bill an urgent priority. We have secured support for this effort from the state’s childhood drowning study commission and are encouraging our other allies to write to the governor to express their support as well. The next step will be to seek a direct meeting with the governor’s office.

NEW MEMBER LIST

AQUA-TOTS SWIM SCHOOL

Caroline Carlson

Seal Beach, CA

BLACKTIP SWIM SCHOOL

Brian Itotia

Dallas, TX

LITTLE SWIMSTERS

SWIM SCHOOL

James Douglas

Houston, TX

SUPERHERO SWIM ACADEMY

Reed Heller

A notable side effect of our legislative efforts is that we have established our coalition as a legitimate, go-to resource for the state government when it comes to drowning prevention policy. We hope that this will ensure the inclusion of our voice in the crafting of future laws that might otherwise have a negative effect on our member schools. Such legislation, if not inclusive of all responsible swim lesson providers, could actually increase the risk of drowning by reducing the amount of lessons available to children.

Many individuals and organizations have contributed to our effort in a variety of ways, and we could not have achieved the success we have without their help. Chief among them are our lobbying team at State & Broadway, and the team at the United States Swim School Association. We are grateful beyond words for their help and support on this legislative journey.

To learn more, visit www.nywsc.org.

Coconut Creek, FL

SWIM STAR SWIM SCHOOL

Nabyla Tarazona

Wellington, FL

TINY FINS SURVIVAL SWIM

Hayden Wooten

Nixa, MO

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children 1-4, and the 2nd leading cause for children 5-14 Source: CDC WISQARS data visualization site,

IF YOU CAN’T WORK, PLAN

BY LAURA VANDERKAM

Maybe it’s the mid-afternoon slump. Maybe it’s a few days of feeling blah after an intense time at work or home. If you can just take the time off and be gentle to yourself, great. But if that’s not going to happen, here’s another idea. If you can’t work, plan. Using low-energy time to think about what Future You could do can turn what might feel like wasted time into something more fruitful. This realization is how Friday became my weekly planning day (see Tranquility by Tuesday Rule #2: Plan on Fridays). Many of us who work a Monday to Friday week are pretty much sliding into the weekend by Friday. It can be hard to start anything new, particularly after lunch. But I realized that I might be willing to think about what Future Me should be doing. It takes less effort to write “revise book proposal” on a planner page than it does to actually, you know, revise that book proposal. So I began creating the next week’s plans on Friday, trusting that Monday Morning Me would have more vim and vigor for these things than whatever I’d morphed into by Friday afternoon.

This insight can work for all kinds of planning. If you’re spinning your wheels on Thursday afternoon you could take a stab at a weekend plan. If you’re feeling like you’re banging your head against the wall you could regroup and write a Summer Fun List, or a List of 100 Dreams, or do something random like plan next year’s holiday vacation. Or plan something completely unrelated to your current slump… like next November’s podcast episode topics?

Perhaps the sense of devising a plan will feel energizing. That energy might help you get going on something else. But even if not, now you’ve got a plan for next weekend. Or a Summer Fun List. Or next November’s podcast lineup. Those are things that didn’t exist before, and probably should happen at some point. Productivity is all mental anyway. If you feel like you should be getting something done, and then you do get something done, whatever that something happens to be, that tends to register as a win.

Reprinted with permission. Laura is the author of several time management and productivity books. Tranquility by Tuesday: 9 Ways to Calm the Chaos and Make Time for What Matters, which was published on October 11, 2022, shares strategies that have been proven to help busy people feel like life is more sustainable and joyful on normal days. Off the Clock: Feel Less Busy While Getting More Done (Portfolio, May 29, 2018) explores, through more than 900 time diaries collected on a single March day, why some busy people feel relaxed about time, while others do not. I Know How She Does It: How Successful Women Make the Most of Their Time (Portfolio, 2015) tackles the question of how women combine work and life through an analysis of 1001 days in the lives of women with demanding careers and children at home. What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast (Portfolio, 2013) profiles prominent people who use time creatively to achieve their goals. 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think (Portfolio, 2010) argues that time is best approached from the holistic perspective of a week (168 hours) rather than any single day.

Ms. Vanderkam will be speaking at the USSSA National Conference in this October in Orlando, FL! Don’t miss her session, “168 Hours: Succeeding at Work and Life 24-7” on Tuesday, October 3 at 9 am.

Check out the USSSA website for further details, registration, and hotel details to set up your reservation!

Laura’s work has appeared in publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, City Journal, Fortune, and Fast Company. She has appeared on numerous television programs, including The Today Show and CBS This Morning, hundreds of radio segments, and has spoken about time and productivity to audiences of all sizes. Her TED talk, “How to gain control of your free time,” has been viewed more than 12 million times. She is the co-host, with Sarah Hart-Unger, of the podcast Best of Both Worlds. She hosts the every-weekday-morning podcast Before Breakfast, featuring productivity tips designed to take listeners’ days from great to awesome.

She lives outside Philadelphia with her husband and five children. She blogs most days at LauraVanderkam.com.

We’ve all been there — low energy times when you’re having trouble making progress on anything.

USSSA MEMBER SHOUT OUT!

A huge shout out to member, Tyler Reed of Tritan Aquatic Training who recently went viral with almost 40 million views on TikTok after posting a video of teaching swim lessons! In the video, he helps build confidence in a 2 year old student with skill building and his mermaid mantra, “I’m big. I’m brave. I’m beautiful.”. He was featured in Good Morning America with an interview and article. Well done, Tyler! For more on this story, visit https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/ family/story/swim-instructor-viral-mermaid-mantra-kidsovercome-fears-99881025

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C E R T I F I E D

F U N D A M E N T A L S W I M I N S T R U C T O R

Pathway #1 = newly hired, with little to no previous experience

Pathway #2 = experienced instructors

Pathway #3 = 15 year old swim instructors

Pathway #4 = those with previous teaching experience and certifications

1 Select a Pathway to the exam & pay registration

2 Visit USSSA Portal for assigned pre-requisite courses.

3. Complete all the pre-requisites, use pre-requisite form to upload required documents.

4. After USSSA staff review and approval, you will receive instructions via email to schedule your online exam.