World Aquatics Launches Discover Water Program

World Aquatics announced the launching of the Discover Water program on July 25, which was designated World Drowning Prevention Day.

The program aims to provide children around the world with the education and skills to enjoy aquatics sports safely. World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam officially launched Discover Water with top international athletes including Anthony Ervin and Pernille Blume at the municipal Piscine Gerard Durant in Paris.

“World Aquatics and our 210 National Federations remain committed to working with the entire aquatics family to promote water safety and reduce the risk of drowning, and this initiative is just one of the many steps we are taking,” Al-Musallam said. “For this program to be sustainable and effective, it is so important to target young children aged from 6 to 12 to develop their aquatic literacy and equip them with key education and skills to enjoy and experience the water.”

While Discover Water is aimed at children aged 6 to 12, its educational tools and learnings can benefit individuals of all ages. To maximize the potential and the reach of the program, World Aquatics will collaborate with national federations to execute activations.

Working with its partners, World Aquatics has developed a toolkit designed to provide educators and coaches with the resources needed to effectively implement the program and promote holistic development in aquatic education.

“I am proud to be here on World Drowning Prevention Day to launch the Discover Water program,” Al-Musallam continued. “Aquatics should bring joy to people and enrich their lives, and we are confident that this program will give more people the confidence to safely engage in aquatics.”

The guidebook presents the overall concept and educational approach of the program, while the playbook recommends activities and includes advice and examples on assessment, checklists and guidance on creating curriculums and evaluating successes.