Purpose: The SWIM program was formed in 2006 with the intent on providing ongoing swimming clinics to low-socio economic youths. In addition to the lessons taught at “learn not to drown” programs that teach kids how to survive if they fall into a body of water, the SWIM program intends on teaching kids that swimming is a fun and healthy sport that provides a great way to exercise in a team environment, teaches important lessons in life such as hard work and determination and, most of all, provides the kids with a fun way to use their time and energy.

Background: SWIM was incorporated by three former University of Texas swimmers: Thomas Hannan, Bryan Jones and Paul Wallace. Each director has experienced first hand the great things that swimming can provide and wants to contribute back to the community and sport. In September of 2006, SWIM was granted 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. No director, officer and volunteer of the organization will receive any financial incentive for participating in the program – rather, all have volunteered their time based on the importance of this program.

Thomas Hannan was a professional swimmer sponsored for two years and spent 4 years swimming for the University of Texas men’s swimming team and competed in numerous international competitions representing the United States including the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Bryan Jones was an All-American swimmer at the University of Texas at Austin and a former world record holder. He represented the United States in multiple international competitions, including two World Championships and the Goodwill Games.

Paul Wallace is a former member of the University of Texas at Austin men’s swim team and is a graduate from the University of Texas at Austin. Having grown-up in downtown San Antonio, Paul knows first hand the importance that swimming can play in the direction of a life. Because of a missed football practice, Paul eventually chose to join a swim program instead of a gang. Paul went on to graduate and eventually earned a spot on the University of Texas swim team. His story is an inspiration to us all and will be particularly well received by the kids in the SWIM program.

In addition to the directors, the SWIM program has fostered strong interest in the community such as Eddie Reese (2004 and 2008 USA Swimming Olympic Head Coach), Ian Crocker (Olympian and World Record Holder), Nate Dusing (Olympic Gold Medalist), Jill Sterkel (5-time Olympian) and many others.

Result: It is the intention of the SWIM program to make swimming a fun and educational sport. As part of the SWIM program, each athlete will be provided with pool space, equipment from various equipment manufacturers and a year membership in USA Swimming. And, hopefully, each athlete will leave the SWIM program knowing how to swim, with higher self-esteem and important lessons in life learned.