The OHS swimming program installed a new LED scoreboard at The Beach Ottumwa thanks to the Perkins Foundation, Legacy Foundation and several private donations.
The new $32,500 scoreboard, installed in September, provides better communication with the swimmers, coaches and spectators. Features include being able to list the current event and heat; swimmer and team names in each lane; subtractive splits and cumulative times; and showing the meet score. The board can also be used for announcements, advertisements, and can display pictures of local swimmers.
Swim team board members have been trained to use the equipment. “We were very excited to be able to acquire this piece of equipment,” said Kim Ardueser, board member and parent. “We are still learning how to use all the new features.” According to Ardueser, Jim Langland had an idea that began with the new scoreboard and has expanded to a new records board, storage and other items. A new timing stand was provided by Ryan Fritz as his Eagle Scout project.
“Our goal was to do something that would provide a sense of pride in our swimming programs,” said Ardueser. “We want the young swimmers from the local beginner’s swim programs like the Barracudas and Hurricanes to continue in the sport and grow the swim programs.”
The boys swimming program started in 1953 with a girls team added in 1974. The Beach is also home to the Barracudas, a swim club that provides training and competitive opportunities for swimmers as well as recruitment into the high school program. Approximately 50 students participate in high school swimming.
