ST. LOUIS – The O’Fallon Park Makos Swim Team is spearheading efforts to address racial disparity in swimming statistics.
Head Coach Terea Goodwin emphasized the team’s commitment to promoting diversity within the sport. They actively encourage swim lessons for Black children, while also extending a welcome to children aged 5 to 18 who can swim at the Stage 5 level.
According to the CDC, black children between the ages of 10 and 14 experience drowning incidents in pools at rates over seven times higher than white children.
Today, from 1:30 to 2:30 in the afternoon, the swim team is organizing an event to raise awareness about drowning prevention. The Makos Swim Team aims to tackle a critical need in the African American community by educating children on water safety measures.
The Pallottine Center is hosting life-saving swimming lessons for kids, teenagers, and adults alike. Additionally, the Makos Swim Team will showcase some of their techniques to inspire those learning how to swim.