Sports editor Craig Anderson e-mailed questions to Matt Nimmerichter, the Town of Middletown’s swimming pool manager for the summer:
Q: Pool members have raved about the facility's condition this year.
What do they seem to like the most?
A:
Most of our members have made the comment that our facility is much cleaning than years past. This includes the pool deck, bathrooms, pool entrance and toy rack. I feel that if the facility is always clean it will create a much more enjoyable experience for all of our members.
Q: What pool rule do kids break the most?
A: It always seems to be something different every year but the most common this year is running on the pool deck. It’s always tough to get the children to walk instead of run especially when they are playing with their friends. However our guards have done an excellent job this year at controlling the running to prevent anyone from falling down.
Q: How important is it to have dependable, responsible lifeguards?
A: Having dependable lifeguards is very important when trying to run an effective pool. It is also helpful to have an experienced lifeguard staff because they have been through various situations that are hard to practice.
Many of the lifeguards at Silver Lake have worked there in the past so they not only are experienced but have good relationships with many of the pool members. They also set a good example for newer lifeguards showing them how to be friendly with the children but at the same time making sure they obey the rules.
Q: Does it help to be working for the Town of Middletown instead of an
outside contractor running things?
A: Working solely with the Town of Middletown has made running the pool a lot easier than in years past. Having every aspect of the pool being run by the Town makes it easier to answer questions and get things done. There is no debating who is responsible for certain area so repairs and changes are dealt with much quicker and smoother.
Q: Besides the swim stuff, what has being a pool manager taught you?
A: Being a pool manager has taught me a lot this year. It has helped me with my leadership skills as well as becoming a responsible adult.
I also feel that my communication skills have improved while being the pool manager. Interacting with the general public everyday has given me the ability work with people that I normally would not encounter. It allows me to meet new people as well as help them with any questions or concerns that they may have.
Q: You play soccer at Wesley College. What are the biggest differences in the soccer competition from when you were at Middletown High?
A: Making the transition from Middletown to Wesley was a lot harder than I had ever imagined. The game is a lot faster and the players are a lot stronger. My freshman and sophomore years provided great learning experiences during practice as well as games.
Another area that is different is the traveling. While playing at Middletown the away bus trip were only an hour at the maximum. In college some of our conference opponents are in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, which can make for some long but enjoyable bus ride.
Middletown, Del. —
