News & Announcements

Summer Swim Summary

Waves of activity filled the TFS natatorium throughout the summer. “At the Natatorium, we are passionate about sharing our love of aquatic safety and fitness with the entire TFS community,” said Aquatics instructor Sara Roberts. 

The staff provided swim lessons throughout June, with several TFS families participating. The Tallulah Falls Torrents competed in the North Georgia Swim League for the second year and brought home the championship trophy at the end of the season. Eighteen swimmers qualified for the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association state swim competition. 

Throughout the summer, staff members enthusiastically worked on certifications and recertifications to ensure they could provide the TFS community the best instruction and safety. Natatorium Director Katie Ralston completed seven recertifications in training and safety instruction. “Our goal is to lay a really strong foundation, which is teaching the kids to swim,” said Ralston. “Dr. Peevy’s goal is to work towards having a student body proficient in swimming and water safety, and by May of 2023, the entire middle school had been through the American Red Cross Learn to Swim program. I am thrilled that we have been able to accomplish that.”

Ralston also worked with her staff on lifeguard training for Waterfront, Shallow Water, and Water Safety Instructor. Ralston is passionate about creating a safety culture. “We are always in training mode,” said Ralston. “We take advantage of every teachable moment – of every learning opportunity.” The lifeguard staff even developed little competitions and contests among themselves, such as swim competitions and backboarding a victim the fastest. 

In addition to Ralston’s training, aquatics instructor Sara Roberts attended lakefront training with new rescue equipment with guards for events like the annual quadrathlon and other group activities at the lake. Roberts is currently in the online preparation portion of my AEA certification. “The Aquatic Exercise Association is further preparing me to work with our students at the Natatorium to give them even more exercise opportunities in the aquatic environment,” said Roberts. “The Aquatic Fitness Professional Certification prepares instructors and trainers to develop safe, fun, and rewarding programming in aquatic exercise.” She also completed her American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor certification. “This was very hands-on, in the pool training,” said Roberts.

The natatorium staff also hosted the rising 4th and 5th-grade pool party and the RYLA camp pool party.