Saving Swimming Pools: The Battle for Community Resources and Health Benefits

The Role of Sports in Social Services and Community Development

The pressing issues facing the world of sports and swimming today needs YOU at the TABLE. From the closure of swimming pools to the role of sports in education, we must lead and seek power for more those beyond the championship meets.

• The potential closure of over 30 swimming pools in Toronto and its implications.
• The launch of enhanced games and the controversy surrounding supplement use.
• The importance of sports being included in discussions on health and education.
• The impact of budget cuts on drowning prevention efforts and opportunities for intervention.
• The role of community engagement and innovative solutions in promoting sports and safety.

We make a call out for Mick Nelson, and others, to join in future discussions. 

Sequence of topics covered in the transcript, with sub-topic bullets below each primary topic:

1. Challenges in Sports and Swimming
2. • Closing of swimming pools in Toronto
   • Launch of enhanced games and concerns about supplement use
   • Efforts to get a big picture view of the situation
3. Child Protection and Social Services in the UK
4. • Comparison of information quality between the UK and Canada
   • Role of Sport for Life in Canada
   • Importance of sport in reintegrating kids into school
5. Sport's Role in Health and Education
6. • Lack of representation of sport at decision-making tables
   • Conversation with a developer about community needs and tax concerns
   • Importance of selling the benefits of sports to health and education sectors
7. Efforts to Save Swimming Pools in Ontario
8. • Battles to save school swimming pools
   • Changing public perception about the value of swimming pools
   • The role of swimming pools in community service and safety
9. Integration of Sport in Social Services
10. • Challenges in aligning sport with social services, police, and hospitals
    • Importance of understanding and meeting the needs of different stakeholders
    • Starting small and expanding successful programs
11. Selling Sport as a Community Builder
12. • The concept of "our gang" in sports
    • Using sport to change lives and build community
    • Creative ways to engage volunteers and participants
13. Impact of Policy Changes on Drowning Prevention
14. • Effects of budget cuts on drowning prevention efforts
    • Opportunities for sports organizations to fill the gap
    • Importance of maintaining and expanding drowning prevention initiatives
15. Data Collection and Analysis on Drowning Incidents
16. • Mick Nelson's work on tracking drowning statistics
    • The need for comprehensive data to inform prevention strategies
    • Potential collaboration with Mick Nelson for insights and business opportunities
17. Future of Swimming and Sports Post-COVID
18. • Challenges in swimming education and access post-COVID
    • The impact of COVID on sports participation and development
    • Exploring alternatives and new sports trends
19. Engagement and Community Building through Media
20. • Promotion of the "Heavy or Not" TV show and podcast
    • Invitation for audience participation with school or team mascots
    • Use of mascots in promoting mental skills for young athletes

Each topic and sub-topic provides a detailed look into the various discussions and concerns raised in Heavy Or Not, jump-cut #34.

In #33 of the Heavy Or Not podcast get a, peek into critical issues surrounding recent CDC cuts and explore the intriguing insights from a comedian's graduation speech.

Hear about essential topics on public health with swimming and life lessons with a touch of humor.

 

CDC's Drowning Prevention Team Cuts Article from Politico discussing the cuts. Layoffs at the CDC affecting the drowning prevention team. Loss of dedicated expertise and focus within the agency. Timing of cuts during increased drowning deaths. Impact on children ages one to four. Possible reasons: fewer lifeguards, canceled lessons. Challenges in rebuilding water safety skills post-COVID. Importance of CDC's role in data analysis and partnerships. Impact on local groups and funding without national data. Unfinished research and projects halted. Artificial Intelligence Advancements Google Meet's real-time speech translation. Allows natural conversation in different languages. Initial rollout in English and Spanish, with more languages to follow. KRISP tool for meetings. Offers silent recording, transcription, and note-taking. Background noise reduction and accent conversion features. Integration with CRM for task tracking and action items. Custom vocabulary for workspace terms. Graduation Speech by a Comedian Life lessons shared by the comedian. You don't have to have a dream; focus on short-term goals. Don't seek happiness directly; aim to make others happy. Acknowledge the role of luck in life. Importance of exercise for mental and physical health. Be critical of your opinions and beliefs. The value of teaching and sharing knowledge. Define yourself by what you love, not what you oppose. Respect people with less power than you. Don't rush life decisions; embrace learning and experiences.

 

Jim Lutz's Guide to Building a Strong Coaching and Team Foundation

Our Heavy Or Not insightful discussion, #32, cultivates the culture, strategies and principles for building a successful program, as outlined within an ebook by author and coach, Jim Lutz. Discover how loyalty, recruitment, and development play crucial roles in creating a thriving team environment.

• Explore the foundational role of loyalty and its five key aspects, including honesty and consistency.
• Learn about the importance of recruiting the right fit, focusing on character and passion.
• Understand the ongoing effort required in development, addressing both strengths and weaknesses.
• Gain insights into effective time management and the significance of setting priorities.
• Discover how artificial intelligence can streamline processes for coaches and program coordinators.

The ebook is available at https://sendowl.com/s/ebook/culture/decide-your-culture-build-your-team-by-international-swim-coaches-assocation for only $8.00.

We're thrilled to release these thought-provoking episodes -- and this one that features another OG swim coach, Jim Lutz. If you're looking to establish quality swim, sports and youth programs -- or just want to soak up some wisdom on leadership and personal growth, this one covers lots of hot yet timeless topics.

What You'll Learn a Pathway and Suite of Priorities:

1. Loyalty as a Foundation: Discover how honesty, consistency, and the desire to excel can transform your team dynamics.
2. Recruiting the Right Fit: It's not just about talent; it's about character and passion. Learn how to find those who align with your culture and goals.
3. Development Strategies: Uncover the secrets to nurturing strengths and addressing weaknesses, ensuring your team members reach their full potential.
4. Responsibility and Integrity: Understand the importance of handling yourself well, even when no one's watching, and how to empower your team through trust.
5. Mastering Time Management: Get tips on planning and controlling your time effectively, ensuring you and your team stay on top of your game.

Fun Fact from the Episode: Did you know that Jim Lutz has spent more than 50 years in competitive swimming? From clubs to NCAA and USA swimming, his hands-on leadership experience is inspiring!

We hope you enjoy heavy issues and a glimps of Jim Lutz's principles. Whether you're a coach, team manager, or just someone looking to improve your leadership skills, there's something here for everyone.

Call to Action: Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from a true OG swim coach! Head over to SwimISCA.com to check out Jim's e-book and explore more of his insights. And if you have any thoughts or feedback, we'd love to hear from you. Share your comments, audio, or even video with us!

Thanks for being part of our community. We can't wait to hear how these insights resonate with you!

Heavy Or Not – The O.G. Swim Guide, Episode #31

https://HON.LAP.red

“You can prepare for the work, but you can’t always predict the weather.”

In this episode of Heavy Or Not, we explore the real-world parallels between weathering literal storms and facing the emotional and professional trials coaches endure over time. Coaches Jim Lutz and Barry Healy share hard-won lessons from the deck and beyond.

Featured Voices:

• Jim Lutz: Coach, author, and Arizona sunshine philosopher

• Barry Healy: Veteran Canadian coach and lifelong mentor

• Special reference: Dr. John Hogg, sport psychologist and author

• Legacy lens: Insights from Cecil Colwin, author and coach

Highlights from Episode #31: 1. Navigating Life’s Storms

Jim Lutz opens with a sunlit reflection—literally. While others face dark skies and sleet, he frames life’s changing circumstances through the lens of perspective. “The storm is the same for everyone,” he says, “but the way you show up in it… that’s what coaching is.”

2. The Role of Mentorship

Barry Healy dives into how mentorship shaped his decades in the pool and the classroom. His admiration for Dr. John Hogg—especially Hogg’s calm and clarity under pressure—anchors a wider conversation on coach development.

3. Team Culture Is Built, Not Inherited

Both coaches emphasize culture as an intentional, daily act. Whether it's a handshake after practice or informal “fireplace sessions” like those hosted by Cecil Colwin, the rituals matter more than the rules.

4. Mental Health, Balance, and Coaching Today

Today’s coaches are stretched thin. The emotional weight of leading young athletes, managing expectations, and staying grounded is greater than ever. This episode doesn’t shy away from that truth—but it offers hopeful, practical encouragement.

5. The Next Generation Deserves Our Best

Jim and Barry both express a shared purpose: helping the next wave of coaches find clarity sooner. “You don’t have to suffer to be good,” says Barry. “You need guidance, not just grind.”

Mentioned in This Episode

Check out the companion book and course: Mental Skills for Young Athletes by Dr. John Hogg https://Read.SwimISCA.org/why/mental-skills-for-young-athletes/

Watch or Listen Now Final Word

Whether you’re coaching a national team or leading a youth rec league, this conversation will speak to the heart of why you do what you do. It’s about mentorship. It’s about resilience. And it’s about the big picture—beyond medals and swim times.

Subscribe at https://HON.LAP.red and be part of the growing Heavy Or Not coaching and sports-minded community.

Further Resources:

• More episodes: https://WAFSU.org

• ISCA Membership: https://Read.SwimISCA.org

• Send your mascot pics: https://YOUCANswim.wetransfer.com

In this episode of the podcast, Heavy Or Not, we kick off with friend and O.G., Wayne Goldsmith. His rant delves into the unsettling mark of young champions at the age of 8 and 9. His podcast is called, Sports Thoughts.  Then we pivot to talk about two successful college sports programs that have been abruptly cut. Oh no! Cal Polly Swimming, Men & Women's Teams, plus Grand Canyon University Men's Volleyball suffered unexpected and unexplainable cuts. Heavy topics. Abrupt losses. Heartbreaks. 

 

Links:

• https://waynegoldsmith.substack.com/
• https://Substack.com/@rauterkus
• https://HON.LAP.red
• https://Go.LAP.red

 

Notes: The opening segment supplied by Wayne is a fine example of a "Heavy Or Not Jump Cut Rant." Rather than doing typical podcast interviews, this first-person rant is desired and welcome. You too can send in your messages to be included as well. Upload to https://UCANSwim.WeTransfer.com.  Share a story. Sound off on a topic. Cut to the chase and use your phone to make a recording. Of course, a video is fine too, but the audio needs to be present. A couple of photos work well too.  

 

Full team and coaches role play activities in 10 scenes that progress in a full-blown story.

• Heavy Or Not – The O.G. Swim Guide | Episode 29

• A peek inside Dr. John Hogg’s Mental Skills for Young Athletes - course and ebooks

Take the time and boost performance, focus, and confidence in your athletes. This episode of Heavy Or Not dives into the often overlooked but game-changing world of mental skills training.

We explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. John M. Hogg and the “Script and Screenplay” eBook, where athletes develop self-awareness, goal-setting, and emotional control — all through imaginative role-playing and practical exercises. It's more than theory — it's a coachable, learnable system that integrates seamlessly into physical training that teams can deploy.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• Why mental skills are the missing piece in many training programs

• How to use structured role-play to teach self-awareness and motivation

• Practical tools for goal setting, relaxation, and energizing techniques

• Ways to help young athletes turn mindset into their competitive advantage

Explore the Mental Skills full LMS course: https://Read.SwimISCA.org/why/mental-skills-for-young-athletes/

Whether you coach swimmers, water polo teams, or any competitive youth athletes, this approach gives you tools to support the whole athlete—body and mind. Buy the Script & Screenplay book. https://sowl.co/p/jwaLm

Why proactive insurance planning and team culture matter more than ever

• Announcing Monthly CYA Calls to stay protected and informed – sign up at LAP.red and subscribe to the Substack.com/@rauterkus.

In Episode 28 of Heavy or Not: The OG Swim Guide, we tackle two core issues shaping the future of coaching:

1. Where to find a great resource on how to build a winning swim team culture rooted in character and shared responsibility.

2. Where to jump start conversations that at every coach and organization should know about insurance, liability, and proactive planning.

• This episode features practical takeaways drawn from the book The Coach’s Starter Guide by Swim Smart, now available: The Swim Coach's Starter Guide – Swim Smart

 

Whether you're a head coach, assistant, administrator, or parent volunteer, this conversation gives you a framework for strengthening your team—both in spirit and in structure.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How team culture impacts performance – and why character development often outperforms just chasing results

• The role of clear expectations and communication between coaches, swimmers, and parents

• Why monthly insurance conversations matter, especially in today’s shifting legal and volunteer landscape

• Tips for preventing the “satisfaction of search” so your team doesn’t stagnate after early wins

• A compelling look at genetics, coaching, and what really drives long-term success

“One person’s success is everyone’s joy. One person’s failure is everyone’s fault.” This mantra shifts teams away from blame and toward shared accountability.

Stay Connected – Join the Monthly CYA Conference Calls

If you're a coach or volunteer, protecting yourself and your team starts with staying informed. Join our free monthly CYA (Cover Your Assets) calls to talk insurance, risk, and strategy with peers and experts. 📍 Sign up now at LAP.red

Listen or Watch the Full Episode:

Catch the full episode on your favorite podcast platform or watch the video version on YouTube. Whether you're in the office, on deck, or in the car—this one’s worth a listen.

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with a colleague who needs to hear this.

Subscribed

Achieving Optimal Rest: Deep Sleep Techniques for Busy Athletes and Students

Enhance Recovery and Focus with Deep Sleep Techniques

Secrets to Deep Sleep for Peak Performance!

Delve into the essential role of deep sleep for athletes, students, and coaches, offering practical techniques to enhance rest and recovery.

Discover the science and art of mindfulness to trigger the parasympathetic response for optimal relaxation.

Learn focused breathing exercises to calm stress and mental chatter.

Explore the use of imagery and language to reinforce relaxation and mental stillness.

Understand the Muscle Relaxation 1-10 technique to connect mind and body for deeper rest.

Gain insights into structuring a deep sleep session that fits into even the busiest schedules.

Prioritize deep sleep as your ultimate competitive advantage for sports, studies, and overall well-being.

We hope you're doing well and getting quality pillow time. Sleep is truly transformative! Respect it. This episode, #27, builds from the prior ones on mental health and goes to a universal topic that's often overlooked but absolutely essential—deep sleep.

Whether you're a competitive athlete, a dedicated student, or a coach guiding others, this episode is packed with insights to help you optimize your rest and recovery.

Let’s learn about Deep Sleep with an OG, Doctor John Heil:

• Importance of Deep Sleep: Discover why deep sleep isn't just a luxury but a fundamental human need, especially for those pushing their physical and mental limits.

• Mindfulness Meets Science: Learn how the art of mindfulness and scientific techniques can trigger the parasympathetic response, helping you achieve that much-needed rest.

• Breathing Techniques: Find out how specific breathing exercises can calm stress and mental chatter, setting the stage for a restful night.

• Imagery and Language: Explore how focused imagery and language can shift your mental state, helping you let go of stress and enhance relaxation.

• Muscle Relaxation Techniques: Get introduced to the Muscle Relaxation 1-10 method, a guided practice to relax your body and calm your nervous system.

• Fun Fact: Deep Sleep aids in muscle repair but also enhances your imagination and problem-solving skills. It's like a secret weapon for both your body and mind!

As you listen, think about how prioritizing deep sleep could become your ultimate competitive advantage — not just in sports or studies, but in life.

If you are ready to transform your sleep routine, tune in and incorporating these techniques into your daily life. Plus, check out Dr. John Heil's resources:

• https://ZenZoneDigital.net

• https://SwimSportPsychology.com/

• https://FencingSportPsychology.com/

There are plenty of additional tools and tips at those websites.

Sweet dreams!

In other news:

Plus, we are seeking photos of you and your mascot!

• https://UCANSwim.WeTransfer.com

  Water Polo!

The course is extensive and a treasure for those looking to expand their community aquatics programs with water polo.

https://Read.SwimISCA.org/why/water-polo

Supporting Student Athletes: Mental Health Challenges and Solutions from Experts

Delve into the mental health challenges faced by student-athletes, drawing insights from experts and real-life experiences.

Discover practical strategies to support young athletes in navigating their complex environments.

Explore the unique pressures student-athletes face, from academic stress to social media influences.

Learn about the ACT framework for recognizing and addressing mental health concerns.

Understand the impact of smartphones and social media on young athletes' mental well-being.

Discover the seven C's model for building resilience and promoting positive mental health.

Gain practical tips for fostering a purpose-based identity and encouraging healthy coping mechanisms.

  New Call to Action Alert at the end. We’re thrilled to announce the release of our latest episode, diving deep into the world of mental health and student-athletes. This episode is packed with insights from experts like Dr. Kevin Wildenhouse and a psychiatrist from the Resolve Crisis Center, who share their wisdom on supporting young athletes through the ups and downs of sports and life.

Learn:

1. Spotting the Signs: Discover how to identify early behavioral changes in student-athletes that might indicate mental health struggles.

2. The ACT Framework: Learn about the ACT model—Acknowledge, Collect, Take steps—to effectively support someone in need.

3. Social Media's Impact: Understand the profound effects of social media on young athletes' mental health and how to mitigate them.

4. Building Resilience: Explore the seven C’s model for resilience, focusing on competence, confidence, connection, and more.

5. Practical Strategies: Get actionable tips like the circle of control exercise and the circle of appreciation to foster a supportive team environment.

Did you know that the fear of other people's opinions (FOP) is a real thing? Social media acts as a Petri dish for this fear, affecting self-worth and mental health. But don't worry, we've got strategies to combat it!

This episode provides valuable insights and practical tools to help you support the young athletes in your life. Remember, you don’t have to be a therapist to make a difference — just being there and knowing what to look for can be a game-changer.

While you're here, share the show with a friend or coach who might find it helpful.

Plus, we’d love to see your school or team mascot! Send us a photo and be part of our upcoming collection in "Mental Skills for Young Athletes."

Thanks for being part of our community. Your support means the world to us!

Link

Be certain to listen to or watch the prior episode, #25, as it is the first part of the special event.

         

Upload photos to:

https://UCANSwim.WeTransfer.com

 

 

Jump cut #25 The topic of mental health among student-athletes comes into focus with insights and notes from a meeting hosted by UPMC Sports Medicine and the Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation.

This is part one of two and it covered the first three presentations. Also see jump cut #26.

Discover practical strategies and expert advice to support the well-being of young athletes.

• Understanding the importance of a student-athlete's "why" and its impact on motivation and connection.

• Recognizing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, and the importance of seeking help.

• Addressing the pressures of athletic identity and the risks of early sports specialization.

• Exploring the role of mindfulness in building resilience and reducing injury risk.

• Practical advice for parents, coaches, and athletes on fostering a supportive environment and proactive mental health strategies.

Understanding Mental Health Challenges and Support for Student-Athletes

1. Navigating Mental Health: Key Strategies for Student-Athletes and Coaches

2. Building Resilience: Mental Health Insights for Student-Athletes

3. The Role of Mental Health in Student-Athlete Performance and Well-being

4. Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Student-Athletes: Expert Insights

5. Cultivating Well-Being: Mental Health Strategies for Student-Athletes

6. Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health Support for Student-Athletes

7. From Anxiety to Resilience: Mental Health Tools for Student-Athletes

8. Mental Health and Student-Athletes: Recognizing Red Flags and Providing Support

9. Enhancing Student-Athlete Well-being: A Holistic Approach to Mental Health

Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, there's something valuable here for everyone!

Keys:

1. Understanding the "Why": Discover how understanding a student-athlete's motivation can be a game-changer, as shared by former student-athlete Jay Dar.

2. Mental Health Challenges: Learn about the critical mental health issues student-athletes face, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, with insights from Piper Carroll.

3. The Power of Words: Explore how language can either support or hinder athletes' mental health, emphasizing authenticity and vulnerability.

4. Injury and Identity: James Tu sheds light on the mental health impact of sports injuries and the concept of athlete identity.

5. Mindfulness and Resilience: Uncover the benefits of mindfulness in reducing injury risk and fostering resilience, with practical tips to get started.

Mindfulness was used, proudly, by Steelers and NFL star Troy Polamalu. He practiced meditation to enhance his focus and calm on the field.

This episode is a treasure trove of strategies and insights that can help navigate the pressures of being a student-athlete. We hope it sparks meaningful conversations and actions in your community.

Explore the course "Mental Skills for Young Athletes" at Read.swimisca.org. Plus, don't miss past episodes of "Heavy or Not."

Stay connected and share your thoughts with us. We’d love to hear how these insights resonate with you!