Ghana Swimming Association observes World Aquatic Day

The Ghana Swimming Association (GSA) organised a workshop for swimming coaches to broaden their knowledge on water safety in commemoration with the FINA World Aquatic Day at the Media Centre of the Accra Stadium last Saturday.

The celebration aimed at gathering non-elite athletes – children, young swimmers, occasional or regular competitors in aquatic disciplines, the Masters enthusiasts – with a common objective to enjoy aquatic physical activity.

The celebration, themed, ‘Learn to swim, save life -- Every African, a swimmer,’ was to create awareness of water safety, how to swim and train swimmers during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Advice for coaches

Speaking at the event, the national swimming team coach, Mr Kojo Abbew Jackson, urged coaches present to ensure their athletes adhered to the COVID-19 protocols during training sessions to avoid the spread of the virus.

“As the GSA has given the green light for athletes to start training, I will urge you all to insist that all the COVID-19 protocols are adhered to in all swimming pools to avoid the spread of the virus.

“We don't want to record cases of the virus. It will be a disaster that during training sessions, we start recording cases of the virus which will prompt a total closure of the facilities. Coaches are to remain at the swimming pool premises to supervise the safety of the athletes and the total number of swimmers at the swimming pools should not exceed 30,” he said.

Water safety measures

An instructor from the International Life-saving Federation, Mr John Kwame Bordebo, entreated coaches to take the safety precautions seriously as swimmers were prone to drowning while swimming in pools.

“It doesn't matter the age of a swimmer and how good the swimmer is, neglecting safety water measure rules can lead a swimmer to drown.

“Consider weather conditions, test the depth of the water, know how to use the life jacket and avoid animals before an athlete gets into the water to swim,” he stressed.