Issiah James “IJ” is 10 years old and in the 4th grade. When he is not swimming, he likes to play video games, going to tuck class, and spending time with family and friends. His best swimming memory was being thrown like a cannon ball by Mr. Devyn. He plans to have a blanket made with his patches. His favorite stroke is the freestyle stroke. Since learning how to swim he is able to swim safely, freely, and with confidence. All his swim teachers (Mr. Devyn, Ms. Olivia D., and Mr. William) is what he liked most about Charlotte Aquatics. His favorite memory is getting to learn new things with the Charlotte Aquatics’ Teachers. Thank you so much Charlotte Aquatics! ♥️
Gus is 8 years old and is super excited to achieve this multiple year goal. He has worked so hard and is super proud of this accomplishment. Thank you so much to all of his amazing instructors over the years that got him here. He is confident in the water and loves to show off his skills at his neighborhood swim meet! Gus enjoys all of the strokes. When he’s not swimming, he loves to play soccer, ride his bike, and build Legos.
Sofia’s hobbies outside of swimming are painting, coloring, drawing, and reading. Her best swim memory is when she got to pour ice on Mr. Mike’s head to support Autism Awareness. Every time she levels up, she puts the patches in her room. Her favorite stroke is breaststroke. Swimming is a big part of Sofia’s life. She loves that she gets to swim with other kids and that makes her happy.
Emilia is 7 yo and just finished 1st grade. With an exception of a small break, she has been in the pool at Charlotte Aquatics since she was 6 months old. She loves swimming, and she cannot go very long without getting in the water. It has helped her be safer around the pool and is her favorite sport. Her favorite stroke is the breaststroke, though she really enjoys it when she can bob from one end of the pool to the other! One of her favorite memories was when she was learning water safety and had to swim with her clothes on. “It’s fun to be able to say I know what it feels like!”
“She loves the water and has always felt safe and secure swimming because of the training and support she has received there. We have loved every teacher she has had, not only because they have taught her how to be safe in the water, but because they have also encouraged and pushed her – celebrating her victories along the way. Thank you all for everything. It has been an amazing 7 years!!” – Kelly and Jose