‘Rays’ of Hope: An All-Inclusive Swim Team Is Making Waves

In the heart of the Arroyo, a remarkable initiative is creating ripples, not just in the pool, but also in the lives of individuals with diverse needs. The Rose Bowl Aquatics Center (RBAC), a nonprofit organization, is the proud home of the Rays Swim Team. This inclusive swim team is redefining the boundaries of team sports. The Rays Swim Team strives to provide a nurturing space where children and adults with developmental and physical disabilities can thrive, both in the pool and beyond.

According to Cameron Lee, the Adaptive Programs Manager, the Rays Swim Team is a close-knit community of swimmers where uniqueness is celebrated, and potential knows no limits. The Adaptive Program is important to the RBAC’s commitment to water safety and wellness. This includes the Learn to Swim program and the Rays Swim Team. 

Lee shared, “We strive to provide skill development and a sense of camaraderie to those traditionally sidelined in conventional sports. Our community includes individuals with autism spectrum disorders, Down Syndrome, attention deficit disorder, cerebral palsy, motor planning problems, and a lack of coordination. It’s vital to emphasize that our coaches set our program apart. They are not merely instructors but architects of empowerment, builders of confidence, and navigators of dreams.”

Inclusivity is at the heart of the Rays Swim Team, and the team’s culture champions the belief that every individual, regardless of their abilities, deserves a chance to shine. Through unwavering support and perseverance, participants develop their swimming abilities and transcend boundaries that historically have defined the sport.

Coach Peyton, a CSArts-SVG senior working towards a career in special education, shares the sentiment: “Being a part of this team is truly special. There’s something magical about watching swimmers and their families cheer each other on that just brings a smile to your face. Come join us and feel the vibes for yourself. We have a swim-raiser and are participating in the Adaptive Sports Festival on November 4, 2023, at Brookside Park and the RBAC. We’d love to see you on deck or at the festival.”

Within the Rays Swim Team, success stories are abundant. Participants who once doubted their abilities now proudly identify as “swimmers.” The team’s commitment to fostering an environment of encouragement, patience, and respect has transformed lives in profoundly inspirational ways. Some team members, like Coach JC, are passing on their positivity, skills, and perseverance to a new generation of swimmers. Others, such as Coach Peyton and Coach Cassie bring their personal life experiences, boundless optimism, and empathy to the program.

Coach Cassie, who has witnessed individuals come to the team with fears, anxieties, and uncertainties about getting in the water, shares, “It never fails to bring me joy when I see that same person fall in love with swimming.” She also proudly notes that the team recently celebrated a swimmer who competed in the Special Olympics.

The Rays Swim Team and program have accomplished much more than making a mere splash – they’ve dived into uncharted waters and emerged with top scores.

For more information on the Rose Bowl Aquatics Center, Learn To Swim Programs, the Rays Swim team, and more, please visit www.rosebowlaquatics.org.