Introducing the 2018 Best of Aquatics Winners

Each November, Aquatics International shines a light on the facilities that are doing something big, bold and innovative to make pools safer and get more people in the water. And each year, the aquatics community does not disappoint.

In the following pages, you’ll be inspired by these professionals, their teams and their creative approaches to common problems, from hiring challenges to public awareness. Enjoy!

• Fairfax County Park Authority is a 2018 Best of Aquatics Winner for Programming

  To get out from under escalating licensing fees, Fairfax County worked with neighboring jurisdictions to devise a new learn-to-swim program called Virginia Swims.

  

• Randolph YMCA Named 2018 Best of Aquatics Winner for Targeted Programming

  The facility's impressive aquatic rehabilitation offerings make it a standout.

  

• Farmers Branch is a 2018 Best of Aquatics Recipient

  Here's how the facility leveraged social media to entice applicants to join the Frog Squad.

  

• Willoughby Parks and Recreation Named in Best of Aquatics

  A new program presents a unique family-bonding opportunity for those with special needs. In the process, it also illustrates the exceptional responsiveness of this aquatics team.

  

• Fairmont Aquatic Facility Wins 2018 Best of Aquatics Award for Programming

  A new learn-to-swim program encourages parental involvement, putting kids on the fast-track to water safety.

  

• 2018 Best of Aquatics Honoree Rochester Athletic Club Trains for Adulthood

  Set in the same town as the Mayo Clinic, the Club has the luxury of hiring from a population of extraordinary teenagers. Trainers are preparing the lifeguards not only to keep swimmers safe, but also to become admirable adults and leaders.

  

• Learn About the Training That Makes Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation a Best of Aquatics Honoree

  With a staff of more than 300, the department must make a conscious effort to outline consistent training from facility to facility.

  

• Westwood Family Aquatics Honored with 2018 Best of Aquatics Award

  The facility's two-year marketing plan was key to getting 114,000 visitors in a community of only 120,000 to come to its newly reopened pool.

  Brought to you by National Equity Fund