ST. LOUIS – Children as young as 11 and 12 years old face the alarming statistic that they are 10 times more likely to drown. But one swim team is fighting this trend.
The Makos Swim Team is the only African American swim team in the St. Louis metropolitan area. Free swimming lessons were held on Wednesday to mark International Water Safety Day.
“This is the first time in St. Louis. And I said, 'Come on, let's come on board and be a part of this safety and get our community, our people.' If we can save one life, we've done our job,” said Terea Goodwin, head coach of the Makos swim team.
With Memorial Day approaching and recent rains potentially causing rising waters, YMCA locations in O'Fallon and Beyer are offering indoor swim lessons for just $5 per person. There were over 60 participants on Wednesday.
Eva Johnson, a participant in the swim team's lessons, said, “I really liked the kickboard, and I liked going into the river.''
Participants, ranging from 2 years old to adults, learned important water safety practices. Parents thanked Makos Swim Team for providing this free lifesaving lesson.
“I don't even know how to swim, but it's very important for me that Eva knows how to swim because she needs to protect herself. I love this,” said parent Arika Parr. said.
Parents shared how important it is for all children to know how to swim and how the Makos swim team has benefited their children.
“Three years ago she was just learning how to swim, and now she tends to be in the top 20% of over 50 swimming girls in her age group. And all the girls, all the kids on the team. swims the same way,” parent Joshua Crump said.
In addition to their commitment to water safety, the team received an exciting invitation to the U.S. Olympic Trials in Indianapolis in June. They will compete in a multicultural swimming competition before witnessing the trial as spectators.
Their dedication to swimming and safety continues to make ripples both in and out of the pool.
