For much of 2020, learn to swim lessons were cancelled as public health leaders, policymakers, and community members considered how best to navigate the challenges of COVID-19. Unfortunately, that led to an increased drowning risk as children lost out on learning a valuable skill and fewer trained lifeguards were available. USA Swimming is partnering with Phillips 66 for our 47th year of working to improve water safety, this year specifically calling for pools to open and remain open throughout the fall and winter to allow for learn to swim programs. We believe that Saving Lives is Always in Season. Join this important conversation with a legendary panel of former Olympic swimmers to discuss why year-round swim lessons are critical to saving children’s lives; how pool closures have put children at more risk; and with outdoor pools closing for the season, how swim lessons can be conducted in indoor pools safely with COVID-19 measures in place. REGISTER HERE

Picture this: you’re swimming along during practice minding your own business when suddenly, you become entangled in a web of an unidentified object floating by. You have no idea where it came from and thrash around trying to free yourself from the big hairy monster. Such is life for a swimmer. Weird objects are always found in pools, no matter the location. Swimming World asked some athletes what the weirdest things they’ve seen in the pool were. Here are 13 of their responses. Feel free to add your sightings in the comments. Read it.

Drowning deaths of under-fives in swimming pools were down a dramatic 50 per cent (six drowning deaths compared to 12 in the previous year) according to new data from the RLS in their National Drowning Report 2020.

In all locations, under-five drowning deaths decreased by 52 per cent on 10-year average (12 this year compared to the 10-year average of 25) and a 37 per cent decrease on last year’s number (19). Read it.

Sponsored Content: Evaporating Dollars? Get Covered!

Water evaporation is a major culprit contributing to a swimming pool's high energy costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, "Swimming pools lose energy in a variety of ways, but evaporation is by far the largest source of energy loss. Hands down, the best way to reduce energy bills is by covering pools when they are not in use with an edge to edge insulated cover.  Read it.

Daily Workout Membership Benefit: Join Jill Ruot, Apache Junction, as she takes you through many workshops that you can use to keep your aquatic staff in shape and ready to perform. This Months Daily workout is: Drag Your Partner

The Association of Aquatic Professionals provides many member only resources as well as a member only section on the AOAP Website. Become a member today in order to have access to all of the amazing information. Click here to see some of the wonderful benefits that A $40 membership provides to individuals.

Revitalize and increase visitor numbers with Wibit’s interlocking combinations and transform your swimming pool into a water adventure for all ages. All Wibit pool combinations are designed to fit the standard pool size. While keeping our successful standard combinations, we also present the new FastTrack for another competitive edge. View it.

Historically Black College and Universities (HBCUs) have been a vital part of the black community in the United States and across the world, providing educational and professional opportunities for the community, as well as enhancing their overall quality of life. HBCUs have a rich history in aquatics, including learn-to-swim programs and competitive swimming, but over the years aquatics has been excluded from the HBCU experience. During this webinar, we will discuss the importance of implementing aquatic programming at HBCU and the potential that HBCUs have in truly addressing the significant disparities in the black community. Register Here.

Many of us survey our members to some extent, and that's a good thing. The more direct feedback we get from members, the more we can meet and exceed their needs. What if I told you that doing the same thing with your staff is equally important — if not moreso? If you want members to have a great experience, you must ensure your staff also has a great experience. It's time to stop guessing and start asking if your staff is happy. Read it.

The Ruth Lee Pool Rescue manikin is already transforming lifeguard training around the world. It allows a trainee to complete a simulated rescue, from start to finish, without needing to switch between different equipment and live volunteer casualties. Perfect for post-COVID training!  From deep-water recovery and towing, to assisted lifts and using a rescue board, the Pool Rescue manikin allows a trainee to learn essential skills while minimizing person-to-person contact. Read it.

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE (CBS13/AP) — A woman drowned after falling off a boat carrying six children on Lake Tahoe and a man who jumped off the boat to try to rescue her had to be hospitalized for severe hypothermia on Friday evening, according to the United States Coast Guard – Lake Tahoe Station. Read it.

The 2021 AOAP Conference and Exposition and Diversity in Aquatics Convention full registration booklet is now available and we are taking registrations. There is also a fantastic virtual option for AOAP being offered as well if you are not able to attend in person. Click here for attendee or exhibitor registration Information and to download the conference/convention booklet or Click here to apply for an AOAP Conference scholarship.

As we continue to navigate the profound impact of COVID-19, employees across all industries are juggling personal demands while trying to keep up with work. During these uncertain times, managers play a significant role in looking out for their team, understanding unique personal circumstances, and creating an open and supportive environment. Read it.

HydroApps Where Aquatic Management Meets Life

Reduce your costs with HydroApps through digitized compliance, documentation, and record-keeping. With more data at your fingertips instead of on pages, spreadsheets, or calendars, you’ll have the tools you need to improve risk management, increase revenue, and decrease your costs and expenses. AOAP Members receive 15% off.

*Teams also have the option to donate 100% of the proceeds. View Now.

For a nominal fee, your agency can post a job opening on the AOAP website and in the AOAP Weekly. To learn more about this service click here.

OPEN AQUATIC POSITIONS - Post a job today!

Being remote or unable to engage your mentor or mentee in-person is no reason to halt your mentoring relationship. Whether your connection is always remote or you’re forced to engage virtually due to travel, health concerns, or otherwise, it’s crucial to keep mentoring consistent and productive. Read it.

It’s tough to know how to help during this coronavirus pandemic. You may find that you have more time on your hands right now than ever. You might even be out of work with nothing to do and nowhere to go. At the same time, the news is currently full of stories about people who are struggling all over in many ways. It’s easy to find yourself feeling overwhelmed and confused about how you can help. Read it.

Pete DeQuincy, Aquatics Manager, East Bay Regional Park District, [email protected]

Juliene R. Hefter, Executive Director/CEO, AOAP, 262-894-9772, [email protected]