Indiana Swim Club is not allowed to swim at its normal school training facilities due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Pools at Indiana University, Bloomington High School South and Bloomington High School North are closed to outside groups.
Indiana Swim Club President Jody Madeira said the restrictions have been frustrating as they now rent at the YMCA for about $11,000 a month.
“We usually access the pools for free, so this is an unanticipated burden on our members," she said. "So as the president I have to say it's devastating, because we have kids who just started swimming who are so excited and working very, very hard. And we have swimmers who are trying for Olympic trial cuts.”
Madeira said if they cannot raise funds to pay for pool rentals, they will have to shut down, which is unfortunate because club members are excited about their new head coach Chip Kline.
“We finally are in a position, I think, to reach new heights in terms of swimming excellence and in terms of promoting sportsmanship and unifying swimming in the Bloomington community," Madeira said. "But without affordable pool space, all of that is for naught.”
Madeira said she's also upset about the inconsistency and uncertainty of COVID-19 regulations.
She said the next step is to arrange a meeting with the school district and try to come to a mutually acceptable agreement, but a meeting has not yet been set.
For the latest news and resources about COVID-19, bookmark our Coronavirus In Indiana page here .
