The Lost Season

 

Back in April, I posted a bit of Jennifer’s story from the interview we did last summer. At that time I was still hoping we could salvage a swim season. As we all know, that didn’t happen.

There isn’t one of us who didn’t miss something they’ve had big expectations for as a result of the pandemic. And my heart goes out to those missing loved ones lost to Covid-19.

While some clubs were able to run camps under the county guidelines, parents weren’t even allowed out of their cars at drop off so I have no swimming footage at all this summer.

Realizing I couldn’t let the whole thing pass without including something for the documentary, I talked to Jennifer via Zoom about missing her last season at Woodlands and what that was like for her.

While many 18 year-olds lamented the loss of high school graduation, Jennifer thought the loss of her last year in rec swimming was bigger. It is clear that a swim camp (and we’re all grateful for them) is nothing like the full experience of rec swimming, with parents and coaches and swimmers all enjoying their time together every week.

Jennifer did get to put her handprint on the Woodlands shed before heading off to college yesterday. Hopefully she can have her final season next year if the league allows it.

I hope you and your family are safe and doing well in the midst of this pandemic. If you find yourself hanging out on Facebook a little more these days, please share this blog with your friends. Thank you for your support of this project.

I sincerely hope we’re back in the water next summer, enjoying the time on deck with our friends and continuing with production of this film.

Do you and your friends from swimming have some stories to share? Please let me know. I want to hear how your family got started in rec swimming. I’m counting on your help to make this a success. Here are some ways to contribute:

  1. Share this blog with your family and friends near and far.

  2. Follow Flip Turns on Facebook and Instagram.

  3. Share my posts with your Facebook friends.

  4. Contribute archival photos, film or digital recordings of rec swimming activities in years past.

  5. If you have a story to share, please contact me.

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If you have questions or ideas, please feel free to contact me directly.