Recently, at the annual BC Coaches Conference and Awards Banquet, the Richmond Rapids were named Club of the Year for 2014.

The accolade was earned through steadily increasing performances in recent years, including the club’s first provincial championship title. Throughout the 2013-2014 season, the club continued to elevate performance, regularly placing athletes on major teams, from provincial to the Canadian Junior National team. The Rapids set four provincial records and one national record, the Boys 14-and-under medley relay. Membership grew to an all-time high, with over 400 athletes through a Rapids program over the year.

Away from competition, the Rapids presented a well-rounded approach to the sport, including volunteering, education, and unique opportunities. This included increased coaching certification, official’s training, sport psychologists, professional nutrition instruction, and visits from high-level swimmers.

“We are very proud to receive this award,” said Head Coach Robert Pettifer, “as it represents improvements not only in performance, but in club culture as well. This is a great starting point for us to build on as we chase bigger and more difficult goals.”

Thank you to the hard working athletes and parents who continue to make the Rapids an amazing place to train and race. The success of this club is due to your continued devotion to a vision of greatness.