Dive into Fun: Malibu Marlins Swim Team Unites for Community Fundraiser at the Pool!

Parents and children enjoyed snow cones while pledging money by completing swimming laps during the fundraiser

Story and images by Benjamin Hanson.

The Malibu Marlins swim team organized a fundraising event for Malibu residents at Malibu High School’s Community Pool on Sunday, Nov. 17. 

Swimmers and kids participated in lap swimming, and guests could commit to donating a specific amount for each lap swum by each child or a fixed sum.

Participants enjoyed complimentary snacks, coffee, and snow cones. Raffle tickets were priced at $5 and prizes included Bluetooth speakers, merchandise from Aviator Nation, and gift cards. 

Coach Erik Ran of the Marlins expressed that the team is relatively new and organized the event to ensure everyone contributed.

“We aimed to generate some funds, so we would have some resources available,” Ran remarked. “This way, if an emergency arises, like a fire, we can compensate the coaches and cover expenses for swim meets and such.”

Ran expressed hope that the youth would appreciate the experience and the value of their participation.

“We trust that they realize their contributions are essential to establishing and ensuring the success of this team, and that they feel enthusiastic about competing,” Ran stated.

“We’ve got little ones there aged 5, 6, and 7, and they know that with every lap they swim, they are earning funds for the team,” Ran recounted. “Some kids initially ask, ‘Do I get the money?’”

Ran conveyed his gratitude towards parents for stepping up and organizing the event, from creating forms to finding sponsors and setting up the canopies.

“The parents who volunteered put these forms together that you see,” Ran shared. “They are the ones actually managing everything. We are merely here to support.”

Jessie Sutton’s 6-year-old son took part in the fundraising by swimming laps.

“We want to come out and show our support for the team,” Sutton said. “My son has a passion for swimming, and we want to see this program thrive and succeed.”

Lonnie Vidaurri, together with his dog Nanuk, expressed enjoyment in watching his daughter have a wonderful time. He attended to show his support for the swim team.

Ran disclosed upcoming events the Malibu Marlins are planning.

“We are looking to have a home meet in December,” Ran explained. “We have a few more swim meets on the calendar, and we are exploring opportunities to collaborate with city events.”

“The city hosted their Junior Olympic event, or whatever they termed it. We are part of that initiative, and we continue to participate in similar activities. In the near term, our focus is primarily on swim meets, and the home meet would be a fantastic addition,” Ran noted.

According to Ran, swimming and sports revolve around teamwork and understanding what individuals can contribute to support their teammates.

“They’re learning that they can provide for others and their teams, which fosters a positive team culture and offers them a fantastic opportunity to bond in the water with their peers and friends,” Ran stated. “That’s the essence of swimming. That’s what sports symbolize.”