Florida has a youth drowning problem; Former U.S. Olympian says new swim school will address that

Following his remarkable achievement of winning three Olympic medals and a joyful gender-reveal surprise at the 2024 Paris Games, nine-time Olympic medalist Ryan Murphy has announced the grand opening of a Goldfish Swim School in Saint Johns, Florida, alongside his family. The opening marks an exciting new venture for Murphy, his parents Pat and Katy, and his grandfather Mike Sullivan.

Goldfish Swim School, known for its proprietary curriculum, The Science of SwimPlay®, focuses on teaching water safety and swimming to children aged four months to 12 years through guided play. The new facility features a 90° heated indoor pool, air-conditioned viewing areas, state-of-the-art water purification, and amenities like private changing rooms and hair-drying stations.

"I have led and observed countless swim lessons throughout my career, and the curriculum and culture that Goldfish Swim School offers."Photo byCourtesy Photo

The need for swim education is particularly pressing in Florida, which has one of the highest rates of unintentional drowning deaths among children. Recent CDC reports indicate that drownings are on the rise for the first time in decades. As the first Goldfish Swim School franchise in Northeast Florida, this location aims to improve water safety awareness, with studies showing that formal swim lessons can reduce drowning risk by 88%.