For the first time East Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation is offering a class in synchronized swimming. According to Leigha Oberle, aquatics director for the city, it may be the first of its kind in the area.
Synchronized swimming is artistic, strength building, and aerobic.
Participants will learn the proper technique for treading water and sculling, will learn basic figures, and will practice working in formations to music.
The coach and instructor is Nicolette Karloski, who was introduced to synchronized swimming as a young teen when she was living in the Czech Republic. So excited by her first class, she went on to practice and compete in synchronized swimming for the next eight years. After outgrowing the available programs, she coached younger girls for four summers until moving to Michigan for her graduate studies. For the last few years she has been turning herself into a triathlete, but said she is excited about introducing synchronized swimming to a new group of athletes in the area.
The East Grand Rapids class, "Intro to Synchronized Swimming," is for ages 9 to 17 and requires a swim test of swimming one length of the pool (25 yards) freestyle, and being able to tread water for two minutes. Participants must bring a nose plug, bathing suit and towel.
The class will be held near the diving boards at the East Grand Rapids High School Pool at 4 p.m. Saturdays from May 25 - July 6, with no class on June 22. Cost is $68 for residents and $83 for others. Participants can register by calling 616-949-1750.