Battlefords Orcas host open house Friday

The Battlefords Orcas Swim Club is hosting an open house Jan. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for residents of the Battlefords and area to check out the pool and various swimming programs offered.

Taking place at the Battlefords CO-OP Aquatic Centre, John Mcleod, head coach of the Orcas, said the open house has provided a great way to show those interested in learning more a little bit about the club and what people can expect within the classes. 

“Swimmers just come in their bathing suits, and they try out our swim team,” he said. “It takes about five minutes [in the water], then they meet our president, and get some information there. Our last one was very successful, we had probably 20 new members and we’re always looking for new members. There’s still room available in our program.”

From Fish School, for the very young children learning to swim to competitive team swimming and a Masters Team geared toward anyone 18 or older wanting to learn or train in swimming, there is no age limit for those hoping to get involved with swimming classes in whatever capacity in the community.

Mcleod said swimming is a unique activity because it’s something the whole family can enjoy spending time doing together.

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“It’s the perfect sport for families,” Mcleod said. “Because your brother, your sister, your cousins, you can all swim at the same facility, you don’t have to go around to different hockey rinks or soccer pitches; it’s just a really good sport for the family.”  

With already almost 40 kids ages 12 and under, and nearly 20 between the ages of nine and 17, involved in the Orcas’ program, Mcleod said there is still room in the program for all ages, including the 18 and older master class, regardless of previous experience in the water.

“A lot of the people that join our club are kids, but we’re also still open up to teens, and adults, within the programs we offer from top to bottom,” he said. “It’s never too late to start in the pool, I’m finding as I coach more and more throughout the years, swimming is being promoted more throughout the various ages; it’s not just a teenager’s sport or a high school sport.”

To learn more about the Orcas swim club, visit their website or find them on Facebook.

Martin.Martinson@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: MartyMartyPxP1