Sept. 7, 2007

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. -- The University of the Cumberlands (Ky.) Swim team has been a positive example to their school and community by serving in various ways to youth. Being a NAIA and Mid-South Conference affiliated school, UC is committed to instilling values and integrity in its students, as well as the community.

Head Coach Garry Nelson and the swim team give free swimming lessons to local Elementary School kids every year. This year, Boston Elementary and Pleasant View Elementary will be participating and 50-75 kids are expected to join. The lessons will be held at the University of the Cumberlands swimming pool from September 10^th through the 14^th, from 6 PM until 7 PM each night. The program focuses on kids who have never had the opportunity to receive lessons or learn how to swim.

Coach Nelson eagerly commented, "Our swimmers really enjoy giving back to the community and they are really looking forward to teaching the kids. They serve as great role models and get so much back from their efforts. As their coach, it is a great thing to see them doing and having so much fun at the same time."

Cumberlands Swim team puts forth a lot of effort in this program, but the serving and giving doesn't stop there. Assistant Swimming Coach, Tasha Perry, has been working with a young boy named Gavin McKnight since 2004. Gavin suffers from a neurological disorder called Cerebral Palsy. This disorder inhibits Gavin from having regular muscle movement and coordination. In addition, Gavin has a difficult time speaking and seeing but puts forth every effort to do both.

Perry stated, "The first time I saw Gavin I knew this would be my toughest challenge, but I knew I could teach him."

During the first year of Gavin's swim lessons, Perry spent time doing some therapy for his legs, arms, and general exercises that would be suitable for any child to learn how to swim. Throughout this year, Gavin stayed very positive and would try anything so that he could learn more. Perry spoke of a memory she has with Gavin that remains a real inspiration to her.

She said, "I can vividly remember the first time Coach Nelson was supervising one of my lessons with Gavin. Coach looked at me and told me Gavin was ready to be taken underwater. I was scared out of my mind; however, Gavin was always willing to try anything I asked him to do. Without hesitation I pinched his nose and he took a deep breath. Time seemed to stand still as we dunked our heads underwater together for the first time. When we came back up to the surface to fill our lungs with a fresh breath of air, I was waiting and wondering if he would choke. Instead of choking on the water, Gavin was smiling from ear to ear and asking me to do it again."

In the past four years, Gavin has learned to hold his breath and open his eyes underwater on his own. Even though he is not physically strong enough to swim on his own, he loves the water and wants to be at the pool every chance he gets.

Perry added, "Gavin has been a challenge and a true inspiration to my new students with disabilities that want to learn to swim and play in the water during the hot months of summer."

A lot has been learned and taken from these kids that UC swimmers are fortunate enough to get to meet and teach. Because of the kids' willingness and eagerness to learn and have fun, much of the community benefits from these programs. Adding to that, the athletes, students, coaches, and staff at Cumberlands grow in character and become Patriot Champions and positive influences.