While this year’s National Diversity Select Camp had a different look to it than previous years, it remained an important and uplifting opportunity for diverse members of the swimming community.

The camp was held virtually from November 13-14 and featured 30-35 athletes on average for each session. Attendees heard from multiple speakers and insiders, including USA Swimming Manager of High Performance, Russell Mark, and Dr.  Regina Lewis.

Also joining the camp to share wisdom as a guest speaker was Simone Manuel, a four-time Olympic medalist and alumni of USA Swimming’s National Diversity Select Camp.

“I look up to Simone Manuel as a role model, so being able to ask her a question was an amazing experience,” said one camp attendee.

The camp is designed to instill a vision of success and inspire athletes from ethnically under-represented populations to become leaders in the sport of swimming. The National Diversity Select Camp brings together some of USA Swimming’s most diverse talent for an extended weekend of pool training, leadership development, team-building activities and learning. Athletes’ personal coaches are encouraged to attend the camp as well.

“It is powerful for these athletes to connect with other swimmers that are navigating our sport in a way they can relate to,” said Mariejo Truex, Senior Director of Education & Programs for USA Swimming. “For some, it is the first time they are able to see and interact with other swimmers that look like them or can identify with their experiences. This camp helps build leadership skills and drive performance knowing that these athletes aren’t the only ones and knowing that they have the necessary support from not only other athletes, but from coaches, officials, parents, volunteers and USA Swimming staff.”

Despite the camp going digital due to the COVID-19 pandemic, swimmers virtually attended multiple breakout sessions that included Using your Sport as a Platform for Protesting, Mental Health, Goal Setting and more.

For more on USA Swimming’s National Diversity Select Camp, along with other yearly programs, visit https://www.usaswimming.org/swimmers-parents/swimmers/swim-camps.