Simone Manuel Leads World’s Largest Swimming Lesson at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
On Thursday, nearly 600 kids from five Central Florida nonprofits participated in The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, learning critical water safety skills from Disney lifeguards and Olympic gold medal swimmer Simone Manuel.
The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is an annual summertime tradition organized by The World Waterpark Association, taking place at locations around the world. Walt Disney World serves as the largest lesson site in Florida and has supported the swim event for many years. In that time, water parks cast have taught thousands of kids from Central Florida how to swim safely – an essential skillset with so many pools and waterways across the state.
Approximately 100 Disney lifeguards supported this year’s lesson, combining hands-on learning and water park fun to help participants gain important swimming skills. For many of these children, it was their first time ever visiting a water park. The excitement of being at Walt Disney World, paired with the expert guidance from Disney lifeguards, helps the kids build confidence in the water and enjoy swimming for years to come.
“There’s something powerful about watching a child gain confidence in the water for the first time,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World. “It’s even more special that for many of these kids, this is their first time ever at a water park. Our cast are creating moments for them that are not just fun, but life-changing too.”
To make the day even more memorable, Manuel surprised the young participants by joining them in the water and helping lead the lesson.
Courtesy: Walt Disney World
“What Disney is doing with The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson fits perfectly with my personal mission of bringing life-saving swimming skills to people. It’s so special to be here at Typhoon Lagoon with these kids and making a difference in their lives,” said Manuel, ESPN’s newest Take Back Sports Ambassador. The Simone Manuel Foundation and ESPN work together to help kids build confidence, resilience, belonging and leadership skills while connecting with other young people in communities nationwide.
Participants attended the event thanks to the support of five Central Florida nonprofits that Disney supports: Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, Girls Scouts of Citrus, Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida, ELEVATE Orlando and the Alianza Center.
“We’re grateful to Walt Disney World for making experiences like The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson possible for our youth,” President and CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida Jamie Merrill said. “For many of our Club members, this is their first visit to a water park and even their very first swim lesson. It’s a day filled with learning, confidence-building and unforgettable memories — and without question, one of the highlights of the year for our kids.”
After the lesson, participants enjoyed a full day at Typhoon Lagoon, experiencing Cool KIDS’ SUMMER with games, dance parties, attractions and more.
The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson is one of many ways Walt Disney World is celebrating Cool KIDS’ SUMMER across Central Florida. The company recently announced a $1.3 million investment in education programs across five Central Florida counties, helping bring fun, access and opportunities to local families.
Families can enjoy Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach this summer as both water parks are open for the season. Plus, guests staying at select Disney Resort hotels get free admission to the water parks on the day of their arrival.
— The above press release was posted by Swimming World in conjunction with Walt Disney World. For press releases and advertising inquiries please contact Advertising@SwimmingWorld.com
