Qualifications of aquatic directors at Indiana swimming pools

Abstract

The purpose of this project was to review the qualifications of Aquatic Directors at Indiana swimming pools in relation to professional preparation and aquatic certification recommended by national agencies. Subjects were 92 Aquatic Directors from all over Indiana. The Aquatic Directors were categorized by the type of swimming pool setting: fitness facility, public swimming pool, private swimming pool. Data were analyzed using frequencies converted to percentages.The fitness facilities were represented by individuals who specialize in aquatics. The majority had no professional aquatic training. They were rated the highest in professional preparation courses and above average in all current aquatic certification categories.Public swimming pools were also represented by individuals who specialize in aquatics. Professional preparation courses rated second to the fitness facility. Public pool subjects did rate highest in a few business related courses. Current aquatic certifications were below average.The subjects from the private swimming pools tended to be less specialized and more administrative. This category rated the lowest in all but two professional preparation courses. Current aquatic certifications in this category were the highest in the low level water safety courses.The results from this study indicate that opportunities for professional preparation have increased since 1939. Aquatic certifications are more abundant in fitness facility settings.