BSAC Blue Wave Swim Team Competes at AAU Jr. Olympics

Swimmers on the BSAC Blue Wave team recently traveled to Greensboro, NC to compete in the AAU Jr. Olympics. It is a multisport event with thousands of participants from across the United States. The Amateur Athletic Union was established in 1888 with the philosophy of “Sports for All, Forever”.

The AAU Jr. Olympics took place over five days at the end of July. Blue Wave Coach, Rich Rogers, especially likes this event because it helps swimmers get out of their comfort zone and come together as a team. At most meets, swimmers are focused on their personal best times and achievements, but events like this help them learn what it’s like to win as a team. It’s one of the few meets where competitors from 8 – 18 years old can be at the same meet cheering each other on.

“As a former collegiate coach, it’s a lot easier for me when it comes time for Blue Wave swimmers to apply for college and try to make a team,” said Rich. “I can call the coach and let them know that these are genuine team players.”

Everyone was working on a specific goal, whether that be to make the qualifying time standard or to improve a personal best time. Most Blue Wave swimmers made it on the winning podium at least once during the competition. They’re learning to raise their standards and have a champion mindset after seeing what’s possible.

BSAC is looking to work with the AAU in the future and establish a yearly championship based on our participation and partnership with the amateur athletic union. We are uniquely qualified to host a winter meet in East Hillsborough County due to our beautiful large pools and Florida sunshine.

We’d like to congratulate all Blue Wave swimmers on their performances at AAU, and wish them the best of luck for the rest of the season.

Published by: Carli Walko – BSAC Director of Marketing