LVC Swimming Groups Educate Classes to Subsequent Technology of Pupil-Athletes

If you stroll by the Arnold Sports Center’s pool on a winter weeknight, you will discover over 100 youngsters taking classes from Lebanon Valley College swim crew members. 

Mary Gardner, Head Coach of LVC’s males’s and girls’s swimming groups, and her husband, Assistant Coach Jim Gardner, have instructed aggressive swimming classes on the College for over 35 years. Each semester, a number of LVC swimmers help with the learn-to-swim lessons and aggressive swim clinics for youths ages three to 18. 

“I am shocked by how much they enjoy teaching the lessons,” Mary Gardner mentioned. “They find time during their busy schedules to do it. Some of the student-athletes who teach are Education and Physical Therapy majors, so their experiences are enhanced because it’s a chance for them to grow in the field of social connectivity.”

Eight former LVC swimmers who taught these classes once they attended the College now have their youngsters enrolled within the lessons. During the winter, roughly 170 swimmers attend the weekly classes. 

Natalie Bourne ’26, D’28 is in her third 12 months instructing aggressive swimming lessons at LVC. The senior first grew to become concerned after listening to concerning the expertise from older teammates. She noticed it as a possibility to assist youthful swimmers develop their abilities. 

“It has been a really positive and fulfilling experience,” mentioned Bourne, a Physical Therapy main. “I learned a lot about communication, patience, and how to adjust my coaching style for each swimmer. It is also a nice change of pace from competitive training. Seeing the kids’ love and energy reminds me why I love the sport.”

 

Junior Brianna Ashman ’27, D’29, additionally a Physical Therapy main, has taught classes on the Arnold Sports Center for 2 years. She requested Mary Gardner a few lifeguard job, who as a substitute requested if Ashman wished to show.

 

“I enjoy teaching swim lessons to help kids improve their swimming skills, and to help myself build as a person and grow relationships with those whom I coach,” Ashman mentioned.

Former Lebanon Valley College girls’s swimmer Rachel King ’24, D’26 is in her fourth 12 months instructing these classes as she works to finish her doctorate in Physical Therapy. King mentioned this expertise has impressed her to proceed teaching.

 

“It has been amazing watching my athletes improve their skills and create great friendships,” King mentioned. “I want to continue to be involved in youth athletics, whether officiating, assisting with coaching, or timing swim meets.”

 

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