Instructor Annie Albright and lifeguard Ed Wojtowicz were recognized for their outstanding contribution to the field by Kansas Recreation & Park Association (KRPA). Albright was named Outstanding Instructor and Wojtowicz was honored as Outstanding Lifeguard.
Albright, a favorite swim instructor at Blue Valley Rec, was named the Outstanding Instructor because of her commitment to helping kids learn to swim. Her dedication to the students sets her apart. On break from her own class, Albright witnessed a boy in another swim lesson who was crying and sitting on the side of the pool. She quietly took him aside for some one-on-one time and had him integrated into the class within 15 minutes. The remaining lesson went smooth for the boy.
Kristin Larsen, Aquatics Coordinator, applauds Albright for her initiative, “Annie is patient with both children and adults, encouraging them to have fun in the water.”
Swim lessons is not the extent of Albright’s duties. She serves as a part-time lifeguard and also teaches aqua fitness classes – something that has become a sought-after activity.
Wojtowicz is known as a jack-of-all-trades and was named the Outstanding Lifeguard thanks to his willingness to chip in whenever needed. In addition to lifeguard duties, he has served as pool chemist, maintenance/repair man and part-time supervisor. He also teaches Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor classes as well as First Aid and CPR/AED classes for full-time staff.
“Ed is that highly-qualified and experienced employee every supervisor wants to have on their staff,” noted Darla Letts, Aquatics Supervisor. “I especially appreciate his ability to guide other staff in a positive and encouraging manner.”
Swimming runs deep in Wojtowicz priorities. He has coached entry level swimmers through Junior and Senior National qualifiers, NCAA qualifiers and Olympic Trial qualifiers and coached at the University of Alabama before heading to the midwest. Wojtowicz directed the aquatics program for the Independence, Mo. public school system and was head coach for Swim Harrisonville. He currently serves as the coach for the Olathe Lightning Swim Team.
The two received their awards at an all-staff meeting earlier in February.