Is Swimming About to Grow in Central PA?

There was an interesting article in the Daily Collegion on February 15 in which the Penn State wrestling coach, Cael Sanderson, was asked about how to save wrestling. Apparently, in some parts of the country (certainly not in central PA) the sport is dying and interest has been fading way. Sanderson responded by saying that saving wrestling is not what needs to be done. Instead he said the following; "First of all, you shouldn't be saying save wrestling in the first place," Sanderson said. "If you want to save wrestling you talk about growing wrestling." That whole article can be read here.

His attitude is the attitude the swimming community should have in central Pennsylvania. Let’s look at a few things that could be done to grow swimming in the middle of the state with the creation of four swimming teams.

The Northern Tier Lungfish (or Guppies or Surfers (why does every swimming team mascot have to be an animal?))
Up to last year, Troy had a summer swim team that participated in the Bald Eagle Swim League. This team had swimmer participation from several nearby communities but a summer pool closing dried up one source of athletes. Unable to field a full team, the Troy team disbanded. At the same time, the Blossburg “Island Park” pool celebrated the renovation of their facility. Although Blossburg is a small town, why can’t a small group of kids and dedicated volunteers train a contingent of athletes in Blossburg? Pair them up with the remnants of the Troy Swim Team and compete as the Northern Tier Minnows (or Crayfish or Hellbenders (now there is a name that will strike fear to area swimmers – hellbenders do live in Pennsylvania waters)).

The Rise and Rebirth of the South Williamsport
Several years ago, South Williamsport participated in the Bald Eagle Swim League. For whatever reason, the team folded but the pool survives. Could not some interested parents restart the team? With the Olympics around the corner, a recruitment effort may pay off some dividends.

Pick Up the Pieces Already
Was it in-fighting? Power grabs? Leadership issues? Whatever the reason for the dissolution of the Williamsport YMCA winter swim team, two years is long enough for the dust to settle and start over. Committed parents and YMCA officials should pick up the pieces and restart the Williamsport Winter Swim team. The 2012 Summer Olympics should generate enough attention to provide a strong response from the community.

Bringing Back History
Renovo used to have a small but energetic swimming community, swimming against the likes of Jersey Shore and Lock Haven. Several parents in Renovo would LOVE to have a swim team/program in their town again. Sure, it wouldn’t be enough to be a team unto itself but could model itself after the Northern Tier Sand Crabs (or Jellyfish or Shad). This whole idea was explored in much more detail here, along with pictures and some history.

We, the swimming community, should be proactive and explore these and other ideas, not to save but grow swimming!