Under the supervision of Stingray Swim Club’s past president, Terry Hora, the US Masters’ Adult Learn To Swim Month of April became a reality here in Huntley. For five of the month’s Wednesdays, Terry and his entourage of club instructors guided six residents who expressed a desire to learn the basics of swimming. Our novice swimmers were: Georgene Besse, Kathy Cundiff, Charlene Hogan, Linda Hybl, Juliana Krupka, and Teressa McKenzie. Assisting Mr. Hora, were Stingray members: Anne Broderick, Caryl Fabian, Bruce Hofstetter, Ginny McCann, Nancy Moore, and Joan Souchek.
When asked to express their aquatic experience, our neophytes were quick to answer. Here are their testimonials:
Juliana Krupka: “My mentor, Caryl, was fabulous! I am now learning to swim at the same time as my grandkids. Prior to this, I only dogpaddled. This [seminars] has taught me to relax in the water.”
Kathy Cundiff: “For a non-swimmer, I learned to tread water. I feel much more comfortable in the water, and it makes me want to move on. I feel like I’ve finished two park district levels for swim instruction. It makes me feel better also!”
Linda Hybl: “My experience was very affirming with excellent feedback, and with patient and calm instructors.”
Teressa McKenzie: “What I got out of the class most was confidence to know that I’m able to accomplish the goal of swimming. Nancy encouraged me to keep going. Thank you guys for taking the time for us to get over our fear of the water.”
In fact, Nancy and her swimmer, Teressa, and Anne and her swimmer, Kathy, continued the swim lessons well after the seminars had ended. As Joan put it, “I like to see non-swimmers become swimmers. I love to teach swimming! It’s my priority!”
Terry finalized the comments by adding, “They exceeded what I had expected! The ladies surprised me with how fast they learned, most kept coming back!”
Having heard from many of these same students, as well as new seniors wishing instruction at Prairie Lodge’s Indoor Pool, Mr. Hora has now scheduled the five Wednesdays in the month of July from 4-5 P.M. for continued “Learn to Swim Seminars.” In July, he and his instructors are hoping to help an even larger group of Sun Citians overcome their past fears/challenges in the water. If interested, please don’t forget to add your name and info to the Fitness Desk’s Sign-Up Sheet as soon as possible. In the near future, you too can express Teressa’s final statement: “I feel my lifelong dream has now been accomplished!”
