On Episode Six of the Swim & Tell<\/em> podcast, host Sophia Knapp spoke with two leaders working to change the way we experience age-group swimming. Doug Fonder, President and CEO of the International Swim Coaches Association, and Lane One: Making Waves Podcast<\/em> host Summer Finke shared their vision for the multi-day swimming event. The ISCA website describes the event as one that “celebrates the heart of age group swimming.”<\/p>\n

Aiming to be the \u201cESPYs of age group swimming,\u201d the event will feature a wide range of awards. These awards will recognize swimmers, coaches, parents, volunteers, and more. As the conversation reveals, the ORCA Awards will go far beyond accolades and times alone.<\/p>\n

Additionally, Fonder and Finke brought attention to the often-overlooked aspects of the sport. They discussed community impact, influential names in the sport, and those who are making an impact behind the scenes.<\/p>\n

Most importantly, they talk about the small details that make the event special. Finke even shared what makes the ORCA Awards trophy so unique. Watch the episode on YouTube to see how they intentionally designed the trophy to be one that swimmers will want to showcase for years to come.<\/p>\n

With a strong emphasis on grassroots swimming, community, and honoring everyone who contributes to age-group swimming, the ORCA Awards are set to become a meaningful celebration of what truly makes swimming special.<\/p>\n