Being a lifeguard requires much more than simply watching the water. It demands skill, strength, patience, quick decision-making, and resilience. From June 29 through July 1, the SunUte Community Center took an important step toward developing those qualities in local youth by hosting its first-ever Junior Lifeguard Camp, led by newly certified Lifeguard Instructor Tatum Meyer.
The inaugural camp welcomed 13 participants eager to take on the challenge of learning what it means to be a lifeguard. The program was based on a Red Cross curriculum that closely mirrors the training lifeguards complete when earning professional certifications.
Over the course of three intensive eight-hour days, campers learned a variety of lifesaving skills, including water rescues, head, neck and spinal injury management, CPR, obstructed airway response, life-threatening bleeding control, and emergency preparedness. Participants were also introduced to Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) and gained firsthand knowledge of how SunUte lifeguards respond during emergencies.
For many campers, the hands-on rescue scenarios were a highlight of the experience.
“It was very exciting and a good workout,” said Elijah Napier. “My favorite part was jumping off the stands with the tube.”
Others enjoyed learning skills they recognized could one day save a life. Matthew Carrillo and Gabe Pooler both cited CPR training as their favorite part of camp, while Kale Pooler said, “I really liked learning the different ways to rescue and save someone in different situations.”
One of the most challenging skills participants encountered was the head, neck, and spinal injury rescue, a technique that requires precision, teamwork, and effective communication.
“I would say that the spinal was the hardest, but if I were a lifeguard, I would say they are necessary,” said John Napier.
Despite the demanding nature of the training, campers remained enthusiastic throughout the program and left with a new appreciation for the responsibilities of lifeguarding.
“I can’t wait to do it next year,” said Dallian Kremer. “I learned how to rescue someone in the water with a spinal injury and CPR. The shirts we got were cool too!”
For Meyer, the camp represented an important milestone in her professional development. Having recently earned her Lifeguard Instructor certification, she was excited for the opportunity to lead the program.
“I recently received my certification in Lifeguard Instructing, so being given the opportunity to host this camp was huge,” Meyer said. “These kids were coachable and kept pushing themselves to get better every day. I was quite nervous teaching a bunch of kids how to become Junior Lifeguards, but almost immediately I felt a weight being released from my shoulders when these kids came through the pool doors on day one. These amazing kids worked so hard each day. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of kids to teach.”
Aquatics Manager Tabetha Napier said one of the most meaningful moments came when longtime swim instructor Trudy Kremer stopped by during camp.
“I think the moment that I enjoyed most was when Trudy Kremer stopped by and we got to talk about how many of the kids in the class we had in swimming lessons,” Napier said. “We talked about how amazing it is that she got to teach them how to swim and now we are getting to teach them to help others. It was a full-circle moment.”
Beyond the practical skills learned, the Junior Lifeguard Camp served as an opportunity to build confidence, responsibility, and community leadership among local youth. The program also provides a pathway for future lifeguards by introducing young people to the profession and the important role lifeguards play in keeping the community safe.
The SunUte Community Center plans to make the Junior Lifeguard Camp an annual event. Based on participant feedback, organizers are confident the program will continue to grow.
“Being able to go to Jr. Lifeguard Camp was a great experience,” said Brooklyn Brake. “I was able to make new friends, and Tatum was such a great instructor. I loved free time because I got to connect more with the people there. I can’t wait to go next year!”
Baylor Brake shared similar enthusiasm.
“It was an amazing experience. The lifeguards were awesome and so much fun. I got to hang out with friends and learn at the same time. It was awesome, and I will be doing it again.”
As excitement builds for next year’s camp, participants are already encouraging others to join.
“If I was trying to get someone to do the class with me next year, I would say it is all actually fun,” said John Napier.
With a successful first year in the books, the SunUte Community Center looks forward to welcoming returning participants and new faces as it continues to promote water safety, lifesaving skills, and future community leaders.