There aren’t many cities that can say that they have their own swim team, especially one that has broken hundreds of records, sent countless swimmers to state and other competitive events, and catapulted numerous senior high swimmers into entering college with swimming scholarships. Jonesboro has been the proud host of the Jets Aquatic club since 1958 – the first, and continuously thriving, swim team in Jonesboro.
Founded by Jack Deacon (who you can find in the swimming hall of fame) and others in the Jonesboro community, this non-for-profit organization welcomes children between the ages of 5-18 of any skill level. The mission of the Jets Aquatic Club is to provide a safe and supportive environment for youth to pursue excellence through swimming, education, training, leadership, and character development.
The skills developed while being on a swim team go far beyond just the physical (improved strength, endurance, cardiovascular health, balance, and dexterity), but the sport and art of swimming leads to many mental benefits in children such as boosting memory, improving focus, and developing self-discipline in their daily lives.
Tim Byrd, Jets Aquatic Club’s newest board president, speaks to the community and family focused values of the team: “Swimming is very much a family sport, and we are lucky that Jets Aquatic Club has so many great families. Our more seasoned families have been great to step in when they see a new swimmer/family at their first swim meet to help show them the ropes”.
Since the Jets are a non-for-profit organization, it relies on community donors and fundraisers to help fund the program. Their board of directors works to control the cost of the fees so that all families may have access to the program, and there is financial assistance available to those who qualify.
At any time throughout the year, children and families can become involved by reaching out to head coach Brandon Charitat directly (another great benefit of local, community-focused organizations) at 870-530-6053. Swimmers simply pay a monthly membership fee; however, some additional funds are needed to make up the difference for expenses such as equipment, training, facility fees, and more. The club provides high-quality training and technique instruction appropriate for any swimmer’s swimming ability and age.
The upcoming Summer Swim Program is a great way to “dip your toes” into the water with no tryout fee – all children need to bring is a swimsuit and goggles. This program provides an opportunity to ask questions about the club and the subsequent summer swim season, which begins April 29th.
Tryouts for the summer begin April 8th and run through the 27th and take place every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 6:30-7:45pm at the St. Bernard’s Health and Wellness Center. Students may attend any/all practices during these dates to decide if they would like to continue with the summer season.
You can find more information on joining and donating at jonesborojets.com or the Jets Aquatic Club on Facebook and Instagram.