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It’s National Swimming Pool Day, So Let’s Celebrate!

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National Swimming Pool Day

Today, we’re celebrating National Swimming Pool Day! It’s that time of the year again when we whip out our bathing suits, dive into crystal-clear waters, and celebrate the joys of pool ownership. Grab your floaties and goggles as we dive headfirst into the origins, meaning, and oh-so-fun ways to celebrate this aquatically inclined national day.

When is National Swimming Pool Day?

National Swimming Pool Day is celebrated on July 11th every year. It’s a day to celebrate the joys of swimming pool ownership or head down to your local public pool to celebrate with a refreshing dip. So, my fellow water enthusiasts, mark this recurring holiday in bold letters on your calendars.

What is National Swimming Pool Day?

National Swimming Pool Day may not have a well-documented origin, but the history of swimming pools itself is an intriguing dive into the past. Back in 3000 B.C., in the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro (now in Pakistan), a remarkable 40 by 23-foot pool lined with bricks and sealed with a tar-like substance was discovered. It seems our love for taking a dip goes way, way back.

Fast forward to the Romans, who built pools for military exercises, nautical games, and athletic training. The Roman emperors even had private pools filled with fish, leading to the Latin word “piscina” meaning “fish pond” being associated with pools. Gaius Maecenas, a wealthy Roman lord and patron of the arts, is credited with constructing the first heated swimming pool around 100 B.C. Imagine how luxurious that must have felt!

Jumping ahead to the mid-1800s, swimming pools gained popularity in Britain. In 1837, the earliest indoor pools with diving boards emerged, providing a platform for daring aquatic acrobatics. The Maidstone Swimming Club, established in 1844 in Maidstone, Kent, stands proudly as one of Britain’s oldest surviving swimming clubs. Its noble mission was to teach people to swim and prevent drowning incidents, following a tragic series of river-related deaths in the area.

Crossing the Atlantic to the United States, we discover the oldest known swimming pool named Underwood Pool in Belmont, Massachusetts. As World War II came to an end, home swimming pools began to gain popularity in America. The allure of Hollywood movie stars’ luxurious homes with their own private pools only fueled the desire for this ultimate symbol of status. Today, the U.S. boasts over 10.4 million home pools, but it’s interesting to note that per capita, New Zealand actually holds the record for the highest number of swimming pools. Turns out, they have more than just sheep!

So, as we celebrate National Swimming Pool Day, let’s remember the rich history and cultural significance behind these aquatic havens. Whether you’re swimming laps, perfecting your cannonball technique, or simply lounging poolside, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of swimming pools.

Celebrating National Swimming Pool Day

Meaning and Purpose: A Deeper Dive

But what is the true meaning behind National Swimming Pool Day, you may ask? Is it just an excuse to showcase our sun-kissed bodies and don colorful floaties? Well, my friends, it’s much more than that. This day serves as a reminder of the joy, relaxation, and boundless fun that swimming pools bring into our lives. It’s a time to appreciate the joy of swimming, to bask in the rejuvenating touch of water, and to indulge in some good old-fashioned poolside shenanigans.

Ways to Celebrate: Making a Splash

Now that we understand the significance of this aqueous celebration, let’s dive into some exciting ways you can celebrate National Swimming Pool Day. Whether you have a private pool, access to a community oasis, or simply plan to visit a nearby swimming spot, there’s something for everyone:

  1. Host a “Splash-tacular” Pool Party: Gather your friends, family, and all the pool toys you can find for an epic poolside soirée. Don’t forget to stock up on sunscreen, snacks, and refreshing beverages. You can even set up pool games like water volleyball or Marco Polo to add an extra splash of excitement.
  2. Embrace Your Inner Aquatic Athlete: Challenge yourself by swimming laps or practicing your strokes. It’s a great opportunity to channel your inner Michael Phelps or Missy Franklin and improve your swimming skills. Just make sure you don’t swallow too much water while doing your best Olympic impression!
  3. Dive into Poolside Relaxation: If you prefer a more laid-back approach, simply lounge by the pool and soak up the sun’s warm embrace. Grab a good book, some chilled drinks, and let the gentle sound of splashing water create the perfect ambiance for relaxation. Remember, it’s essential to find a comfy spot, because napping and poolside relaxation go hand in hand.
  4. Get Creative with Pool Games: Inject some excitement into your aquatic adventures by inventing your own pool games. From synchronized swimming routines to treasure hunts or even a makeshift water park using sprinklers and inflatables, let your imagination run wild and bring your swimming pool to life with laughter and friendly competition.
  5. Show Some Love for Lifeguards: Take a moment to appreciate the unsung heroes who ensure our safety and peace of mind at swimming pools. Thank the lifeguards on duty, strike up a conversation, or even surprise them with a small token of appreciation. Remember, a smile and a heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way.

So, my fellow water enthusiasts, let’s raise our goggles and celebrate National Swimming Pool Day with a splash! Whether you’re cannonballing into the deep end or simply floating lazily on an inflatable unicorn, make this day a memorable one. Embrace the joy of swimming, bask in the camaraderie of poolside companionship, and relish every moment of this refreshing holiday. Happy Swimming Pool Day, everyone!

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Alise Everton

Alise Everton has been working in the pool industry for the past decade and is an experienced press correspondent and contributor for numerous trade publications and web portals including PoolMagazine.com and PoolContractor.com among others. Contact her for guest posting opportunities, press releases, and pool equipment related news.

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Landmark Aquatic Brings Poolside Adventures Attractions Nationwide

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Landmark Aquatic and Poolside Adventures partnership featuring AquaZip’N pool attractions

Poolside Adventures and Landmark Aquatic have joined forces to bring big-impact attractions with a small footprint to aquatic facilities across the country. The partnership pairs Poolside Adventures’ AquaClimb®, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX attractions with Landmark’s expansive nationwide reach and proven expertise in aquatic facility design, construction, renovation, and maintenance.

Poolside Adventures attractions add excitement to aquatic facilities without a major renovation because they anchor directly to an existing pool deck with no water hookups, special tools or added concrete and reinforcement. In fact, the modular AquaClimb® walls can start with one section and grow with budgets. The AquaZip’N® is rapidly becoming a new, safer alternative to diving boards as it only requires four feet of water depth, can be installed in just a few hours, and has a throughput of six riders a minute.

“Some municipalities can’t afford a new water park or perhaps cannot renovate their pool this year,” said Cherie Moy, VP of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships for Poolside Adventures. “Our products are an easy answer: a big impact with a small footprint, adding an ‘active attraction’ that makes the pool more exciting.”

“Landmark has a large footprint across the country, and we’re especially excited about their reach into HOA communities, a growing market where our partnership has already led to multiple installations,” said Moy. “Together, we will help clients find the right fit for their space, their budget and to add action and adventure to their pool experience.”

Matt Cappello, Vice President of Design at Landmark Aquatic agrees saying, “We’re excited to collaborate with Poolside Adventures to promote the versatility, ease of installation and entertainment value their products will bring to more pools across the country.”

About Landmark
Since 1967, Landmark Aquatic has helped communities and organizations bring complex aquatic facilities to life and keep them performing. Today, we are the nation’s largest integrated commercial aquatics platform, providing design, construction, renovation, restoration, and maintenance services nationwide. Our construction-led expertise and long-term service capabilities give customers one trusted partner across every stage of a facility’s lifecycle. For the life of your pool. Learn more at www.landmarkaquatic.com.

About Poolside Adventures
For more than 20 years, Poolside Adventures’ flagship AquaClimb® has led the market for poolside climbing walls. Its full line, including the AquaClimb® Luxe, AquaZip’N® and AquaNinja® FLX, delivers challenging, safe fun for swimmers of all ages. For more about Poolside Adventures visit www.aquaclimb.com
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Shasta Pools Hires 30-Year Builder to Head Residential Construction

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Shasta Pools 60th anniversary logo over a custom swimming pool

Vic Harshman brings extensive pool building experience to key leadership role

  • Decades of proven pool construction experience across Nevada, Arizona and Texas
  • Previously served as Shasta Pools’ exclusive excavation contractor
  • Predecessor handpicked Harshman to grow position under new leadership team

SCOTTSDALE, Arizona (October 5, 2026) – Shasta Pools, Phoenix Metro’s most recognized pool builder, named Vic Harshman as Head of Residential Construction. Harshman joins the new leadership team with more than three decades of hands-on industry experience and a long-standing relationship with the company to one of its most critical leadership roles.

Harshman has held senior construction leadership positions in Arizona and Texas, and worked closely with Shasta Pools, developing firsthand knowledge about the company’s standards, culture and customers. The appointment reflects the momentum Shasta Pools has built since its August 6 acquisition by Dansons Capital Group, Accrual Equity Partners, and Hydro Construction, and positions the full-service 60-year old pool company for continued growth.

Leadership Perspective
“Vic brings exactly the kind of no-nonsense, customer-first leadership our residential construction division needs,” said Jeff Thiessen, President, Dansons Capital Group. “His philosophy is deeply aligned with ours. Keeping customers’ needs as the foremost priority at every stage of the build process is at the center of everything we do, and Vic lives that every day.”

Harshman’s career in pool construction began at age 19, when he purchased a backhoe and launched a business digging plumbing trenches and footings. When the housing market declined in the late 1980s, he relocated to Las Vegas and began excavating swimming pools, a move that led to the creation of Harshman Excavating.

Harshman built and operated excavation businesses in Nevada, Arizona and Texas, primarily serving the pool industry, and served for a period as Shasta’s exclusive excavation contractor.

In 2012, Harshman joined A&A Manufacturing, serving pool builders across an eight-state region and growing annual sales by 10x. In 2020, he joined Keith Zars Pools in Texas as Director of Construction, where he brought together decades of ownership, leadership and industry knowledge.

A Return Rooted in Relationships
“I have always believed that strong relationships, hard work, accountability and taking care of people are the foundation of a successful business,” said Vic Harshman, Head of Residential Construction, Shasta Pools. “Shasta has been a meaningful part of my career for many years. I am genuinely excited to come back and help lead this team into a very exciting future.”

Harshman steps into the role with the full support of Dan Thiessen, Chairman of the new ownership team, and John Mortensen, the outgoing head of residential construction. Mortensen recommended Harshman for the position and will now serve as the company’s lead trainer. That transition reflects Shasta Pools’ commitment to investing in its people and preserving institutional knowledge as the organization continues to grow.

ABOUT SHASTA POOLS:
Shasta Pools is Arizona’s trusted name in custom pool building, proudly serving the Valley since 1966. For 60 years, Shasta has transformed backyards into beautiful, functional spaces where families relax, entertain and enjoy life. The company specializes in new pool construction, remodeling, pool service and landscape design with plans for expansion into the home services market to provide customers with complete home care solutions. Learn more at ShastaPools.com.

ABOUT DANSONS CAPITAL GROUP:
Dansons Capital Group, headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, is a family-owned and family-managed investment firm built on shared values, integrity and long-term vision. The firm was established by the founders of Dansons, Inc., the company that launched and sold Pit Boss Grills. The company takes a hands-on approach, actively seeking opportunities across global markets and multiple asset classes. Its growing portfolio includes strategic real estate development holdings across multiple countries, oil drilling technologies, and limited partnership investments. Guided by a deep commitment to quality and the communities they serve, the Thiessen family leads with gratefulness for the blessings God has given them and in turn supports those less fortunate. Dansons Capital Group continues to identify and cultivate opportunities that reflect their family’s values and generational vision.

ABOUT ACCRUAL EQUITY PARTNERS:
Accrual Equity Partners (AEP) is a founder-led, privately funded private equity group built on the belief that every person, every percentage, and every product matters. This commitment, known as the “Power of One,” drives AEP’s mission to empower businesses and secure legacies across fragmented, service-based industries. AEP partners with founder-led and family-owned businesses to overcome barriers and unlock their full potential through strategic investment, operational performance enhancement, and advisory services. For more information, visit AccrualEquityPartners.com.

ABOUT HYDRO CONSTRUCTION:
Hydro Construction, LLC (HydroCon) was founded in 1986 to serve Arizona’s commercial pool construction and renovation market. Under the leadership of Curt Lonsdale, the company’s commercial pool construction division now manages some of the largest and most complex projects in the country.

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NTCA Welcomes Jennifer Ibe and Rachel Smith to the Team

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Jennifer Ibe and Rachel Smith join the NTCA team

Flowood, MS, October 1 – The National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is pleased to announce the addition of Jennifer Ibe as Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager and Rachel Smith as Membership Marketing Manager. The two new positions strengthen NTCA’s focus on membership growth, retention, engagement, and delivering greater value to members.

“Growing and strengthening our membership is a key priority for the NTCA, and Jennifer and Rachel bring the experience and expertise to help us do that,” said Jeremy Sax, Deputy Director of NTCA. “Their complementary skills will allow us to take a more strategic approach to both membership development and the overall member experience.”

Jennifer Ibe, Membership and Sponsorship Sales Manager

Ibe brings more than 10 years of experience in association events, sales, sponsorships, relationship management, and strategic growth. Most recently, she served as Director of Sponsorship and Sales for the Global Workspace Association, where she led major conferences, sponsorship development, budgets, and initiatives that increased attendance by 33% and profitability by 30%.

At the NTCA, Ibe will lead membership recruitment, retention, re-engagement, and relationship development while supporting sponsorship and partner revenue opportunities. She will also represent the NTCA at major industry events and help strengthen relationships with members and prospective members.

Ibe holds a B.A. in Communications from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Rachel Smith, Membership Marketing Manager

Smith brings extensive association experience in membership, communications, digital engagement, and member programming. Most recently, she served as Digital Communications Manager for the Association of Electric Companies of Texas. Previously, as Director of Membership for the Texas Economic Development Council, she managed more than 1,000 members and developed programs to increase member engagement and networking. She also served as Membership Coordinator for the Texas Association of Community Health Centers, where she managed more than 5,000 members and led new-member onboarding and retention initiatives.

At NTCA, Smith will focus on member onboarding, retention campaigns, communications, digital engagement, webinars, events, and community development. She will also support membership analytics and digital initiatives aimed at strengthening the member experience.

Smith holds a B.A. in Communications with a minor in Social Justice from West Virginia Wesleyan College.

“Jennifer’s focus on relationship-building and membership development, combined with Rachel’s experience in member communications and engagement, gives us a strong team focused on every stage of the member journey,” Sax added. “We’re excited about what this means for our members and for the future growth of NTCA.”

About NTCA
Established in 1947, the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to the professional installation of ceramic tile and natural stone. It is widely recognized as the largest and most respected tile contractors’ association in the world. For those seeking to improve their tile business, NTCA provides unparalleled educational experiences, supportive peer interaction, unique cost-savings programs, and a commitment to help develop the skills needed to improve your work, recruit, train, and manage your employees, and ultimately, make your business more profitable. Find out more at www.tile-assn.com.

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