On Saturday, January 18, the SHHS pool hosted the third annual Rex Storch Swim-a-Thon, in partnership with Swim Across America.
According to their website, SAA’s mission is to “Fund cancer research, clinical trials, and patient programs, by hosting charity swims.”
This event was geared towards honoring Strath Haven ‘95 graduate Rex Storch, a former record-breaking SHHS swimmer. Storch swam for his first two years at the United States Military Academy West Point before he developed leukemia.
Nether Providence Elementary School first-grade teacher Mrs. Tina Zamulinski was a co-leader of the event, and provided insight on the background of Storch’s cause.
“His sophomore year of college, [Storch] was diagnosed with leukemia, and unfortunately he lost his battle,” Zamulinsky said. “That’s how this came to be in honor of him.”
The event was open to the community from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., and WSSD students of all ages showed up to display their support.
“Our goal is to include the Haven Swim and Dive team, but also all students across the board,” Strath Haven boys swimming coach Mr. Brian Ward said.
The day consisted of lively rounds of water polo, competitive inner tube races, and a wet t-shirt relay.
“It’s always a lot of fun, and a really good team bonding event,” boys swimming captain Emilio Celebre said. “We get swimmers from the boys and the girls team, and even kids not on the swim team will come out.”
While many swimming teammates participated, sophomore William Zamulinsky had an even deeper connection to the event. Zamulinsky is an 11-year leukemia survivor, according to his mother who co-led the Swim Across America event.
“It feels great because I had cancer when I was younger, and we’re here to raise money and support [others],” William said.
As of Sunday, January 20, event fundraisers had raised $1,408. The fundraising page remains open as of this publication.
Ward, Zamulinsky, and other event planners hope to continue the Swim-a-Thon for years to come, aiming to grow awareness for Rex’s cause.
“It’s all about bringing the community together in our pool,” Ward said.
