It’s been a season of cancellations. One after another, we’ve watched our favorite annual events and celebrations get deleted from the calendar as we work together to stay safe. But amid it all, the Y held its first-ever Aquatics Games in late July. And for the four teams of staff who competed, it was an afternoon of good-natured competition and fun – something that seems to be in short supply these days.
The brainchild of Aquatics Director Kristin Strickland, the event offered a welcome respite to the staff. “We’re in that tough time of summer, when it’s really hot, and staff are starting to hit the wall,” Kristin said. “This was an incentive, something to look forward to.”
Each team was led by an aquatics manager and included four lifeguards and one non-lifeguard member. Teams competed in a swim relay, capture the flag, rescue relay, and mini-triathlon. They also demonstrated their knowledge in a written test and a critical incident scenario, in which the team responded to a scene that required rescue skills performed as a group. They also competed for best team theme and costumes.
The Mermaid Squad, led by Bonnie Steffensmeier, took first place. “Mermaid Squad’s secret to being #1 is simple: We didn’t plan on winning,” Bonnie said. “I had a great team, and everyone was willing to try almost anything. They gave it their all and had a lot of fun.”
Other teams included the Heroes, led by Marguerite Lysek; the Pirates of the Floridians, led by Justin Blount; and Disney, led by Mackenzie Flynt.
Kristin said the competition offered a chance for staff to demonstrate the skills and teamwork they’ve learned. It was also an opportunity to evaluate our staff training and identify areas for continued improvement. The event – which included food and prizes for all competitors – was also a way to recognize and reward staff who have worked hard, especially during a time when changes have been frequent and unpredictable.
A YMCA aquatics staff member for 17 years, Bonnie said she sees value in the event. “In these times everyone is worrying about the world around us, from Covid-19 to the number of drownings and how we are trying to keep everyone safe at our pools,” she said. “To take an afternoon that is all about us, having fun, and using the skills we use every day in our jobs was a great way to start winding down our summer season.”
The Y has operated four pools this season – the pools are our own branches, plus the Roger Scott and Hunter Pools for the City of Pensacola – without any critical incidents.