FATHERHOOD WEEK: Dads Are Part Volunteer, Part Cheerleader

Most of us already know that swimming is great for overall physical fitness, and it also builds confidence and encourages good sportsmanship in children. But there is another aspect to the sport that could be seen this past Saturday morning at the Walden Country Club Pool.

As swimmers lined up to jump into the pool, dads were not only busy cheering on all the participants but volunteering as well.

“For me, it is pure enjoyment spending time with my children and having the opportunity to teach them valuable life lessons about volunteering without expecting any tangible return.  It teaches them to follow through on commitment, responsibility and shows them how to build character and encounter new experiences,” said swim team volunteer Steve Torzone.  

He added that an additional benefit is the opportunity to interact with the families and kids that his children interact with. “This helps me communicate with my kids as they grow and change, all without intruding on their privacy or personal space,” said the Crofton resident.   

Torzone added, “As a father, a son, and a husband, I feel as if I should set the example for which my children look up to and want to emulate.  And I am mirroring what my father has done for me.  I was fortunate enough to have parents that were involved with my life growing up, and now that I have children of my own, I realize the importance of a male role model in their life.”

Eleven year old Caitlin Schoenberger loves it when her dad cheers her on when she is swimming. Her dad Charlie is frequently a timer for the Walden Waves. “This is a wonderful opportunity to combine spending time with my kids, their friends and our community. This is a part of a summer tradition,” said father  of three, Schoenberger. 

“We love it when dads come out and help. They not only volunteer their time but they move all the heavy stuff for us as we set up the pool, we would be lost without them!” said Coach Burger. 

Darren Miotin, team manager for the Walden Waves says that all families on the team should join at least one committee.

“For example: concessions, timing, kid finding, judging, etc. One person from the family should plan to volunteer in some manner during each meet,” said Miotin. “It is a lot of fun. It’s all for the kids. With hectic schedules and life being non-stop, it is nice to stop and just have fun with your kids. We have a lot of dads come out and help. Unlike other sports, where the child goes on the field with the coach and the parents stand on the side lines with nothing to do, in swimming the dads are right there with them. There is always a lot of work involved, even during regular practices,” Miotin added. 

“The best part about my dad coming to my meets is that he cheers and yells the entire time I swim. Sometimes, I think I can here him when I’m underwater!” said Catlin.