by Curtis Morton
History has been created on Nevis.
On Wednesday 23rd February, swimming officially became accepted as part of the curriculum of activities at the St. Thomas’ Primary School.
Visiting professional swim coach, Anne Mclindon was elated at the significant achievement, as she warmly welcomed the first batch of nine students and formerly introduced them to their respective local coaches.
The venue was the beach at Yachtsman’s.
The idea of introducing swimming into the schools, is her brainchild.
The students were then outfitted with headgear and goggles and were subjected to warm-up exercises before they were allowed to enter the water.
As starters, they were asked to immerse themselves fully into the water in order to get accustomed and were introduced to basic floating techniques.
The following day, Thursday 24th the Cecely Browne Integrated School, also formerly adopted swimming into the curriculum and a large batch of students were introduced to basic floating skills at the Eden Life swimming pool.
President of the Federation’s Swimming Association, Winston Crooke, was on hand to witness the significant event.
He thanked Ms. Mclindon, Terri Andrews, Minister Evelyn, Jamir Claxton, the Education department and all who had a hand in making his longtime dream, a reality.
He noted that the aim was to ensure that every child on Nevis learns to swim.
‘What they do with that knowledge is up to them,’ he stated.
The program will eventually spread to include all schools in St.Kitts and Nevis.
He explained that eventually the best of the best will be selected with possibilities of international swimming competitions in the offing.
